tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32663892769017013922024-02-18T21:49:25.005-05:00Castle Geek-SkullCastle Geek-Skull is a geek-culture extravaganza covering toys, video games, cartoons, comics, and more!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger516125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-78673020287178459462016-11-11T22:15:00.000-05:002016-11-19T16:40:50.837-05:00Transformers Combiner Wars Liokaiser Toy Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZ2lNX7dnhZ_je9TgJpvFw0HF2e_aKbpDExnVEpkuglFTpGtiqI0g5f2FJ6D6zh2kHiFdu6pB-6dD5HVSAPyO5bwTnD576b6N17wCS0McL05W7fOkZli_plQTgZ7T0DIQ5kTgfTwdG7A/s1600/liokaiser_combiner_wars_head.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZ2lNX7dnhZ_je9TgJpvFw0HF2e_aKbpDExnVEpkuglFTpGtiqI0g5f2FJ6D6zh2kHiFdu6pB-6dD5HVSAPyO5bwTnD576b6N17wCS0McL05W7fOkZli_plQTgZ7T0DIQ5kTgfTwdG7A/s1600/liokaiser_combiner_wars_head.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>The Kind-Of-6 Robot Combiner, In Effect!</i></center>
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The Combiner Wars continue with one last release: the <a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HSB6639&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Entertainment Earth exclusive Liokaiser Gift-Set</a>! This marks the first time the famed Japanese G1 gestalt has received any sort of official nod from Hasbro, and they went all-out accordingly. (Well, as all-out as can be given a budgetary constraint or two.) Now, let's dive in to see what the latest Transformers Platinum Edition release has to offer!
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<center><i>Disclaimer - Images below often contain fan configurations arranged to my personal taste. Be cool!</i></center>
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<center><i>Guyhawk enters the fray!</i></center>
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This bright pink beauty is none other than Guyhawk, one of the few Destrons to keep his original name. The color scheme calls far more attention than any "robots in disguise" would really want, but hey, that's just how it was done back in the late '80s, m'kay?
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<center><i>TRANSAFOAAAM!!!</i></center>
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Combiner Wars Guyhawk's robot mode is just lovely. The facial expression alone sets a high bar for the rest, and the head itself works wonders for setting the figure apart from the original Air Raid mold. It's hard not to be drawn to this guy immediately upon opening the gift-set's alluring contents.
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<center><i>Now, Drillhorn!</i></center>
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Yep, next up is Drillhorn, also with his original moniker intact. Using the Brawl retool seen on whatever random Botcon 2016 toy and Hasbro's <a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HSB3900&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Technobot Nosecone</a>, you can choose between two different vehicle mode configurations:
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<center><i>New. Different.</i></center>
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I'm honestly not sure which I prefer. The first is a bit more G1 accurate, so at least there's that. At any rate, the tank mold looks quite snazzy in the stark blue and white color scheme.
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<center><i>He shoots things sometimes. Okay, most times.</i></center>
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With Drillhorn's robot mode, we get our first taste of one of the set's raddest features: pop-out horns, crests, and other helmet ornamentation! The image above makes it seem as if the drill is part of his noggin, but I assure you, a conehead he is not!
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I'm not sure how unique this really feels from Brawl outside of the obvious changes, but it's nice to look at all the same.
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<center><i>What the fell?</i></center>
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Okay, let's address the obvious. The name "Hellbat" doesn't really fly within the confines of a children's toyline. Aimed at adult collectors or not, Hasbro had to devise an alternative. And with that, the ridiculous FELLBAT was born! It is a name to be feared throughout the land.
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That aside, this is a gorgeous jet mode. That blue is richer than Uncle Scrooge, yo!
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<center><i>Na-na na-na na-na na Fellbat Man!</i></center>
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While naturally not as eye-catching as the bright pink Guyhawk, Fellbat has some killer looks in robot mode. He's based on the Skydive mold, a toy that definitely had its ups and downs. With this sweet new head-sculpt in play, I have approximately zero complaints.
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<center><i>Friendly lookin' thing, ain't it?</i></center>
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Next in line for the renaming party is Killbison, now known as the slightly cuddlier IRONBISON. I kinda wish they'd gone with <i>Kickbison</i> to reference the <i>Street Fighter</i> movie, but what can you do?
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Ironbison is — appropriately — an ever-so-slighty gaudy gold tank. It looks about a thousand times better in person, so fret not!
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<center><i>Struttin' that ass!</i></center>
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I didn't expect this, but man, Ironbison might be my favorite of the bunch. The new head is about as on-point as it gets, and the combination of gold and shiny silver paint is all kinds of striking. Invest in Ironbison, folks. His stock is only goin' up from here.
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<center><i>Arms Micron Hype!</i></center>
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Rounding out the smaller members of the set is Ion Scythe, a redeco of Arms Micron Gul. This is a nice and unexpected little bonus. Its inclusion is likely meant as a nod to the "Breastforce" gimmick shared by the original team.
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Yes, that's really what they called it. Let's just move on.
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<center><i>Controversy creeps.</i></center>
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Now, here's where things get interesting. In place of Leozack and Jaruga, the main component of the team is made up of Dezarus: a slight remold of <i>Sky Lynx</i>! Yeah; the name is a nod to a separate (albeit related) character entirely, and this marks a huge departure compared to the rest of the set. But you know what? Budgets is budgets, man.
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Another version of <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2015/08/combiner-wars-silverbolt-review.html" target="_blank">Silverbolt</a> may have done the trick, but Sky Lynx is certainly the road less traveled by. On those grounds alone, I'm totally fine with the decision making here. The first version of this mold wasn't terribly easy to find anyway, meaning this will likely be some people's first experience with it. It's quirky as hell, but it's the kind of quirk I can <i>definitely</i> get down with.
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<center><i>Who's a good boy?!</i></center>
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Even with some slight retooling, it's hard to get this sucker to resemble anything but the original character it was intended for. Fortunately, going with a kaiju fan mode helps a bit:
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<center><i>Gargoyles Gone Wild.</i></center>
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It's pretty weird, but I like this thing. It's like some kinda evil chicken from Hell.
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Oh, excuse me. I meant <i>Fell</i>.
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With that, it's about time we got to the big man himself. Destrons, FORM LIOKAISER!
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<center><i>So Lio. So Kaiser!</i></center>
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I'd be lying if I said this doesn't look good. Again, the nature of the torso-bot having been designed with something completely different in mind keeps this from being a 1 for 1 recreation of the original Liokaiser, but I kind of dig that! Almost universally, I prefer Transformers that represent a fresh take these days.
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Let the old stuff be the old stuff! The original toy, expensive though it may be, is out there. If I want that, I'll get it. Combiner Wars Liokaiser works as an homage that still has its own ideas. <i>Sold</i>. I'm freakin' sold, dude!
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNR1L4uFbqaKLg2u18wftPRv-tm0p1gAUyO0KYNxyRgFn5h_hMtIaVPymYpXRIlwxx9XfxIFa305TOpQS7ZG1TrxS2haLxAUd-h0y3IJYyfQ-xoekqW3fTZA9dUmigvRbRIkKcFSu1cA/s1600/liokaiser_combined_mode_sword_destrons_combiner_wars_transformers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="619" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNR1L4uFbqaKLg2u18wftPRv-tm0p1gAUyO0KYNxyRgFn5h_hMtIaVPymYpXRIlwxx9XfxIFa305TOpQS7ZG1TrxS2haLxAUd-h0y3IJYyfQ-xoekqW3fTZA9dUmigvRbRIkKcFSu1cA/s640/liokaiser_combined_mode_sword_destrons_combiner_wars_transformers.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<center><i>What the hell is this pose?</i></center>
<p>
As shown off by my god-tier photography, there's plenty of variety in the possible weapon configurations. Ion Scythe's numerous weapon ports help out immensely. Whether it's swords, guns, lances, typewriters, or whatever the hell else, the only limit is yourself.
<p>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVkNPPK6uw5DCiqydeAGnUb9SGcrK97zbq1KdTi_nLLCdch2GlLQlaC5NGN9ICKWb_q9sBVR-yodM-lSQcTTvBb_1jpF36w2-PXo5chjIepMOo_lhuK__NbOsMw3J51s9ao4fwN3TxZEo/s1600/liokaiser_combined_mode_composite_cannon_gun_destrons_combiner_wars_transformers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVkNPPK6uw5DCiqydeAGnUb9SGcrK97zbq1KdTi_nLLCdch2GlLQlaC5NGN9ICKWb_q9sBVR-yodM-lSQcTTvBb_1jpF36w2-PXo5chjIepMOo_lhuK__NbOsMw3J51s9ao4fwN3TxZEo/s640/liokaiser_combined_mode_composite_cannon_gun_destrons_combiner_wars_transformers.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<center><i>It's 'bout to get shooty in here.</i></center>
<p>
Adding to the fun of course is some swanky articulation. Dezarus' wacky joints even allow some inward/outward shoulder motion and thigh swivels! Of all the Combiner Wars gestalts, this is easily one of the most fun to mess around with.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgofBxrafq3rKJH6-92h_bv7_tP5bWuylDv5faEkffg-9ZKyPrysK8uZmRbRPm53MIkv87VELyAZZoemKLtXcU5oJg2peIz2sgYcysYAy6PV5xeAEAupHi_gIU0K2CtKWtLI22e-z1aeWA/s1600/liokaiser_combined_mode_destrons_combiner_wars_transformers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgofBxrafq3rKJH6-92h_bv7_tP5bWuylDv5faEkffg-9ZKyPrysK8uZmRbRPm53MIkv87VELyAZZoemKLtXcU5oJg2peIz2sgYcysYAy6PV5xeAEAupHi_gIU0K2CtKWtLI22e-z1aeWA/s640/liokaiser_combined_mode_destrons_combiner_wars_transformers.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<center><i>This is also a picture that was taken.</i></center>
<p>
Oh, yeah. You can arrange the tank legs similarly to the original design as well. The only downside is the loss of knee articulation when doing so. But hey, that's what hoverboards are for.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKaHu6ehIktC4sADGnkfsN5yMM8jypt1bOTrPhyh5TuajhfiKHMuhIoJV2Xc11_SglOyEmEaZz87LJopiuglwha5nYWCy_h0jmu_bAXEevur0x_7y4rdyRXh84CBq1AtXexTO7yGFfphE/s1600/liokaiser_destrons_team_group_combiner_wars_transformers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKaHu6ehIktC4sADGnkfsN5yMM8jypt1bOTrPhyh5TuajhfiKHMuhIoJV2Xc11_SglOyEmEaZz87LJopiuglwha5nYWCy_h0jmu_bAXEevur0x_7y4rdyRXh84CBq1AtXexTO7yGFfphE/s640/liokaiser_destrons_team_group_combiner_wars_transformers.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<center><i>Now THIS should have been the cast of The Breakfast Club! Get outta here, Emilio Estevez.</i></center>
<p>
Overall, the <a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HSB6639&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Transformers Combiner Wars Liokaiser Gift-Set</a> is pretty freakin' sweet. Some of you out there won't be able to accept the new direction taken with the torso component, and that's fine. I find the differences quite refreshing however, and Dezarus' deluxe pals are ten outta ten all the way. All things considered, I'm more than pleased.
<p>
If you're interested in bolstering your Decepticon Combiner ranks with a Liokaiser of your own, just head over to <a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/aff-home.asp?id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Entertainment Earth</a> via the banner below. For a limited time, you can save $20 on top of the free shipping (and even receive a bonus diorama) with the coupon SINGLES. Jump on it:
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HSB6639&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33wSUq05MLoo056Mehr1H0YqFeN976X8kUwGvF-gBDwWwt_875AfM-dYro-9VDFVpP0qXGfyTRQHaRFsQNPCetbgUtPB7oBwNdDSQwWjHXziIEDgke3iI5063HuEZcz9NAdBFcVXOw-I/s640/transformers_combiner_wars_liokaiser_giftset.jpg" width="640" height="640" /></a></div>
<p>
<i>Need a little more Transformers love in your life? Well, why not check out <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2014/06/generation-1-decepticon-highlights.html" target="_blank">the best Decepticons of the entire Generation 1 toyline</a> while you're here?
<p>
There's plenty more to come! Be sure not to miss it by following Castle Geek-Skull on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a>!
<p>With that, I bid you adieu~</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-38869592127855832842015-10-30T23:07:00.000-04:002015-11-28T06:48:16.659-05:0010 G.I. Joe Figures To Display For Halloween<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc7XKIgoVztoaPJKmH6ObiWuIlYDCcvZtKEJR-O8Vlgiepu-P6Z1qWnn4AtRcRQ7ME3ddWuZ_x_f1mzVlP61HwlU_W7TCe_P7xgNgMQBi6MD831eUpA1qkO22G3Ex_c8-lhjLFsAQiB98/s1600/gi-joe-logo-halloween.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc7XKIgoVztoaPJKmH6ObiWuIlYDCcvZtKEJR-O8Vlgiepu-P6Z1qWnn4AtRcRQ7ME3ddWuZ_x_f1mzVlP61HwlU_W7TCe_P7xgNgMQBi6MD831eUpA1qkO22G3Ex_c8-lhjLFsAQiB98/s1600/gi-joe-logo-halloween.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>G.I. Joooooooooeeeeeeee</i></center>
<p>
From the 1980s on, the <a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/hitlist.asp?spotlight=2811&theme=G.I.+Joe&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank"><i>G.I. Joe</i></a> franchise has been built on a unique combination of military and sci-fi design sensibilities. Even so, plenty of Halloween-appropriate elements tend to slip through the cracks. In keeping with the spirit of the season, here are 10 of the spookiest <i>G.I. Joe </i>figures to ever hit the toy aisles.
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjeQ27xZnTLh09FW1XydYrRoWM4kb2vY8thmsobp5yFDNMdKtkbcnRSSK6s1dvcPZkFUBNn3qp-QDKo-py4-H3cThv1owZqr2T9yzLmqnQ2_Is-lasdYvL6nkdNVw3SKdP8Bp8iYxr4Ms/s1600/zartan-v1-1984-gi-joe-figure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjeQ27xZnTLh09FW1XydYrRoWM4kb2vY8thmsobp5yFDNMdKtkbcnRSSK6s1dvcPZkFUBNn3qp-QDKo-py4-H3cThv1owZqr2T9yzLmqnQ2_Is-lasdYvL6nkdNVw3SKdP8Bp8iYxr4Ms/s1600/zartan-v1-1984-gi-joe-figure.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Zartan v1 (Real American Hero, 1984)</i></center>
<p><a name='more'></a>
While not inherently scary outside of the mildly King Diamond-esque eye makeup, Zartan is Halloween personified. He's all about dressing up in disguise, a function often represented with super-convincing mask accessories. Oh, and let's not forget the weird color changing skin gimmick!
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDIiaYwrz0yaNfNrKojRkK9NNfKAbOlCY1TyDAv4sOpkh5KkFv1WXu7FGl1h_uWJkj6NJZyLI8HlBQxiKEO4l4odlG4hwgTga2cq7Y1iKju4p7WL-1WUS397XuDjPAY0gvvl0yay_xG5Q/s1600/nemesis-enforcer-cobra-la-1986-gi-joe-figure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDIiaYwrz0yaNfNrKojRkK9NNfKAbOlCY1TyDAv4sOpkh5KkFv1WXu7FGl1h_uWJkj6NJZyLI8HlBQxiKEO4l4odlG4hwgTga2cq7Y1iKju4p7WL-1WUS397XuDjPAY0gvvl0yay_xG5Q/s1600/nemesis-enforcer-cobra-la-1986-gi-joe-figure.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Nemesis Enforcer v1 (Real American Hero, 1986)</i></center>
<p>
Nemesis Enforcer was sold in a Cobra-La 3-pack alongside the Royal Guard and Golobulus, a wacky half snake-man. This guy is the winner of the bunch thanks to his bat-wing and tentacle backpacks. He'd feel right at home in some funky vampire anime from the 80s.
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_5OC3mzOYIcSYqGPpGUmvUGfdo6PXZsod_kavc24aCcly9iCO95XKXKi7yci31xexep3AbWx21L31FSo8WEAccl24MOEwdTkcx7Gp48aUxML4IAE-NX8ALS63aWIT-vyEczAVvh0JCFo/s1600/serpentor-v1-1986-gi-joe-air-chariot-figure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_5OC3mzOYIcSYqGPpGUmvUGfdo6PXZsod_kavc24aCcly9iCO95XKXKi7yci31xexep3AbWx21L31FSo8WEAccl24MOEwdTkcx7Gp48aUxML4IAE-NX8ALS63aWIT-vyEczAVvh0JCFo/s1600/serpentor-v1-1986-gi-joe-air-chariot-figure.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Serpentor v1 (Real American Hero, 1986)</i></center>
<p>
Serpentor takes the whole "Cobra" thing pretty seriously. The central theme of his armor is snakes on snakes, with even <i>more</i> snakes thrown in for good measure. I was always creeped out when this dude was around.
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihtEUPwmHfri0xVfHctLf1PYfuOXfpAGjGV_I7jZH5FoBtrrHDDIr_NeTYEAVo6TL476O54TDW1DZM-B6ydGtMoC0n38CFVNSshGt8dlxKAsfRLtQLbQ4L5PN2zgKxwE46G-A1DZQ5caA/s1600/croc-master-v1-gi-joe-figure-1987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihtEUPwmHfri0xVfHctLf1PYfuOXfpAGjGV_I7jZH5FoBtrrHDDIr_NeTYEAVo6TL476O54TDW1DZM-B6ydGtMoC0n38CFVNSshGt8dlxKAsfRLtQLbQ4L5PN2zgKxwE46G-A1DZQ5caA/s1600/croc-master-v1-gi-joe-figure-1987.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Croc Master v1 (Real American Hero, 1987)</i></center>
<p>
Croc Master: crocodile trainer by day, underground BDSM clubber by night. That's really all you need to know.
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTpy_xtNRHk8S8OxIklrDfA5ypl8SVaruoEwA0Sd8hLb5LrselZl75KeSOZvcn8nMjy2hJ5pU5VUQQmo_aPuBV5FDxnPpOsyf93n15NwCR4n13K0FUcZcq8t6W9_pEZvGo66QS6ErE7cA/s1600/overkill-v1-gi-joe-figure-1992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTpy_xtNRHk8S8OxIklrDfA5ypl8SVaruoEwA0Sd8hLb5LrselZl75KeSOZvcn8nMjy2hJ5pU5VUQQmo_aPuBV5FDxnPpOsyf93n15NwCR4n13K0FUcZcq8t6W9_pEZvGo66QS6ErE7cA/s1600/overkill-v1-gi-joe-figure-1992.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Overkill v1 (Real American Hero, 1992)</i></center>
<p>
Overkill may as well be the prototype for Uber Jason from <i>Jason X</i>. As one of the Talking Battle Commanders, you can have him yell out cute, friendly little phrases like "Destroy!" Oh, and the accessories turn his arms into full-fledged torture devices. <i>Yeesh.</i>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRnL9DYlXlGu1V_P-GUzhK69sa3fzDhd7Q9CKuYyPYk5W3cojCEpzpoz8y-NuXkflZ-E7DJgYkHV1ECRoy-ZV-V5FwEEfwY-I190GuqJa25xCoBqTq5RznvdNUBLDpPguJ-sK6LcjTXc/s1600/toxo-zombie-v1-gi-joe-figure-1992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRnL9DYlXlGu1V_P-GUzhK69sa3fzDhd7Q9CKuYyPYk5W3cojCEpzpoz8y-NuXkflZ-E7DJgYkHV1ECRoy-ZV-V5FwEEfwY-I190GuqJa25xCoBqTq5RznvdNUBLDpPguJ-sK6LcjTXc/s1600/toxo-zombie-v1-gi-joe-figure-1992.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Toxo-Zombie v1 (Real American Hero, 1992)</i></center>
<p>
Sci-fi horror was pretty big in the 90s, and the Toxo-Zombie is a shining example. One look at this guy and you just know something's gone horribly, horribly wrong. With damn-near neon colors and some of the best card art you'll ever see, this is one of my favorite <i>Joe</i> figures by a mile.
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieoYdwSeL6qyBAV3QJD3AZP-vwccYfs37i1S1TupLP_unOXBPm-j6i4dgr3UEurHCnnFmzOny3Jtznalsp0MfaFcjNsPjS7ibyYcNC99Y8UkBWBdjrhyo9nS-yYIUw3EvU3RykqJ0D0aw/s1600/carcass-gi-joe-figure-1994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieoYdwSeL6qyBAV3QJD3AZP-vwccYfs37i1S1TupLP_unOXBPm-j6i4dgr3UEurHCnnFmzOny3Jtznalsp0MfaFcjNsPjS7ibyYcNC99Y8UkBWBdjrhyo9nS-yYIUw3EvU3RykqJ0D0aw/s1600/carcass-gi-joe-figure-1994.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Carcass (Real American Hero, 1994)</i></center>
<p>
What the hell? Okay, I'll admit Carcass tips way over into the "goofy" spectrum. Still, he's a horrific space creature with exposed guts. Plus, that "BENDABLE MONSTER ARMS!" package-blurb is an instant classic. If you need further qualifications, it doesn't hurt that he's bright friggin' orange.
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc6iLtFdDorvpWZMAoQPDJp7TDPi2fTOpRapA9YdDzj9S3Dhvekt6ipTvITxzNfjn5UIda050XSbPd4_jdmOlyvxICfZnI2wnLlGk4zv2Y93vPypoX_L82mznf2G-1Ny0v4-lvIuU6Pqw/s1600/inferno-bat-gi-joe-figure-2003-troop-builder-set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc6iLtFdDorvpWZMAoQPDJp7TDPi2fTOpRapA9YdDzj9S3Dhvekt6ipTvITxzNfjn5UIda050XSbPd4_jdmOlyvxICfZnI2wnLlGk4zv2Y93vPypoX_L82mznf2G-1Ny0v4-lvIuU6Pqw/s1600/inferno-bat-gi-joe-figure-2003-troop-builder-set.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Inferno B.A.T. (Spy Troops, 2003)</i></center>
<p>
The internet exclusive Inferno B.A.T. rocks a translucent blood orange deco and an exposed rib-cage hologram. It'd be easy to dismiss this figure as just another android trooper, but the Halloween vibes are in full effect.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCi7tiSY0v3uHW86lwQYwGwnT_oyb1XsOEjjnNlzPldFEnJz500myJeYTYlB_796zWYi0HJX5DZepVs8Iywkh2cXg3e-weN4TzQmAz44XdT6zaoDIMhbU1V4Gf7rlIG5TWotjzgGS03Fs/s1600/nano-viper-gi-joe-figure-2009-rise-of-cobra.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCi7tiSY0v3uHW86lwQYwGwnT_oyb1XsOEjjnNlzPldFEnJz500myJeYTYlB_796zWYi0HJX5DZepVs8Iywkh2cXg3e-weN4TzQmAz44XdT6zaoDIMhbU1V4Gf7rlIG5TWotjzgGS03Fs/s1600/nano-viper-gi-joe-figure-2009-rise-of-cobra.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Nano-Viper (Rise of Cobra, 2009)</i></center>
<p>
Evil green armor. Skeletal helmet. Grabby techno-organic vines! I'm not sure how intentional it was, but the Nano-Viper is pretty damn creepy. <i>Rise of Cobra</i> was fairly meh-inducing, but at least its toyline had some gems to offer.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQMS1hCw9b8QHhBu1K1nDFXfWcPlPuG9F41dmAyXA6DcXIaBuvwXn5e-Macyol96nYbh8kjiYrt1ymboF2034xJKqsPakPAfeOT6I_9E-gCVKwl2m7RCDnK_O_36Pq2E_JJimbZ3jIRY/s1600/zombie-viper-v1-gi-joe-figure-30th-anniversary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQMS1hCw9b8QHhBu1K1nDFXfWcPlPuG9F41dmAyXA6DcXIaBuvwXn5e-Macyol96nYbh8kjiYrt1ymboF2034xJKqsPakPAfeOT6I_9E-gCVKwl2m7RCDnK_O_36Pq2E_JJimbZ3jIRY/s1600/zombie-viper-v1-gi-joe-figure-30th-anniversary.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Zombie Viper (30th Anniversary, 2011)</i></center>
<p>
Here it is. The 30th Anniversary Zombie Viper is the pinnacle of <i>G.I. Joe<i></i></i>'s flirtation with horror. The shambling re-animated troop builder was all the rage in 2011, and for good reason. With excellent sculpt-work and perfect accessories, this is one of the top examples of how bad-ass <i>Joe</i> figures can be.
<p>
<center><b>BONUS ROUND!</b></center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1X_F6FdyfhJpYC1nbTSYFH4PaXCw8QwCWcopmPmotAf-np80iu4eNbraLlxflIPi8UhneQ2Xj-oh2zHw4vBRLtqJv25cp5loiE1PkhoEICdM0_qeKPrUt47aS0DqEQMF1Ao2g0FKIhf4/s1600/blind-master-v1-gi-joe-figure-2013-retaliation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1X_F6FdyfhJpYC1nbTSYFH4PaXCw8QwCWcopmPmotAf-np80iu4eNbraLlxflIPi8UhneQ2Xj-oh2zHw4vBRLtqJv25cp5loiE1PkhoEICdM0_qeKPrUt47aS0DqEQMF1Ao2g0FKIhf4/s1600/blind-master-v1-gi-joe-figure-2013-retaliation.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Blind Master (Retaliation, 2013)</i></center>
<p>
Honorable mention has to go to the Blind Master. Some of you are likely confused right now, but hear me out. There's no way I can look at this figure without being reminded of RZA's acting in <i>G.I. Joe: Retaliation</i>. On those grounds alone, this may be the most terrifying <i>G.I. Joe</i> of all.
<p>
Yeah, so there's an awful lot of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001JSUVOW/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001JSUVOW&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=VE3AELGDHWTDMMF2" target="_blank">Cobra</a> dudes up there. But hey, that should come as no surprise. The bad guys are almost always a bit further on the spooky side of the spectrum, and that's a huge part of what makes them so much fun. It goes without saying; that's what Halloween is all about.
<p>
<i>If you dug this list, you might also want to check out <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2014/10/halloween-transformers.html" target="_blank">10 Transformers To Display For Halloween</a> and <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2014/10/5-freaky-tmnt-figures.html" target="_blank">5 Of The Freakiest Original Ninja Turtle Figures</a> from last year. And as always, you can check for future Castle Geek-Skull posts by following along on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-78957789078629443192015-10-29T22:20:00.000-04:002015-11-28T06:51:46.307-05:00Castle Geek-Skull's Halloween Dummy Shenanigans<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0X4nW1l41VRKNx-CCUxct8Hq-6mVxsaoxoNE5G7RXCEGdWFk6Gu6HrkiaxYLeghmnrHsGK5vXlI1uW1gpsa-ulbYpkfZhy5pq7U-8xHdgRFyLTHTSUO-qmNzg3x2AtgnhELDLgvolI_c/s1600/halloween-dummy-closeup.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0X4nW1l41VRKNx-CCUxct8Hq-6mVxsaoxoNE5G7RXCEGdWFk6Gu6HrkiaxYLeghmnrHsGK5vXlI1uW1gpsa-ulbYpkfZhy5pq7U-8xHdgRFyLTHTSUO-qmNzg3x2AtgnhELDLgvolI_c/s1600/halloween-dummy-closeup.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Oh, hello there.</i></center>
<p>
I've been spending quite a lot of time with family this year. While it's often firmly in <i>serious business</i> territory, a bit of fun rears its head now and then. The best example I could possibly provide lies on the shoulders of the handsome Halloween dummy above. Don't mind the googly-eyed felt spider; he's cool.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirKBOeNXtgeqo24YKpvaQVx14Vb-1BzPRQkF864Ul3FeTvRU7fGk2fdt0HRyxnUZpm2LYRRxCbHCx0FXIzLuVYmFAqED-vGy9hxWMmSICxFfX89vzouE4R309O-bLxGVI5AsK0RTKLRak/s1600/halloween-dummy-homemade-porch-display.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirKBOeNXtgeqo24YKpvaQVx14Vb-1BzPRQkF864Ul3FeTvRU7fGk2fdt0HRyxnUZpm2LYRRxCbHCx0FXIzLuVYmFAqED-vGy9hxWMmSICxFfX89vzouE4R309O-bLxGVI5AsK0RTKLRak/s1600/halloween-dummy-homemade-porch-display.JPG" /></a></div>
<p><a name='more'></a>
Made of an old shirt, worn-down jumpsuit, gardening gloves, and ancient Velcro shoes, I cobbled this paper-stuffed gentleman together for my grandparents' porch. Thus far, it's the only Halloween decor on the entire street. While I'd love if that weren't the case, it's nice to have been the one helping jazz things up.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcrpte3KgRv6XUlyC9sP7mtZiWTA-HvYpWTo5E7LZk8cSqrlAGNyuKR-Emd-3spo3kCiuCOs0ipy5fGVg-6AHtDmTypTRhX7PGHm-PU1T1N5t0VZUADuSOD8rWYvmIhb_TF-1Qpgm1g0M/s1600/fall-scarecrow-welcome-decoration.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcrpte3KgRv6XUlyC9sP7mtZiWTA-HvYpWTo5E7LZk8cSqrlAGNyuKR-Emd-3spo3kCiuCOs0ipy5fGVg-6AHtDmTypTRhX7PGHm-PU1T1N5t0VZUADuSOD8rWYvmIhb_TF-1Qpgm1g0M/s1600/fall-scarecrow-welcome-decoration.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Why is this so adorable?</i></center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWxJn85bHx4fG3aZzfS_7DgZLI0gISl1QYZ3Qe-jDPsVaPyo-vlcnTCcGjdKujIUJP-Y4OX-jUNHr7zMN88i84GQtnVnAjTfjtORekoNSkIWL-UidRJCC4c1RjhR0YKanxbpC1Ep789yM/s1600/halloween-fall-dummy-yard-decorations.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWxJn85bHx4fG3aZzfS_7DgZLI0gISl1QYZ3Qe-jDPsVaPyo-vlcnTCcGjdKujIUJP-Y4OX-jUNHr7zMN88i84GQtnVnAjTfjtORekoNSkIWL-UidRJCC4c1RjhR0YKanxbpC1Ep789yM/s1600/halloween-fall-dummy-yard-decorations.JPG" /></a></div>
<p>
My grandmother had several fall-themed decorations in storage, and these happy-ass scarecrow children seemed like they should come along for the ride. I say we <i>all</i> deserve our own legion of tiny smiling scarecrows.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUwSz64e7biHh5B96Pq_s-RohOfv5GMkF6kkqMQ-DVijSiETboS9vSQFVIr-bUGB7NVPr8U4MNTds4KATHTdwkMYnbOaUrxRrEu7FubHI5UlkDETAECDfqSVc0fYzKIHYSRF6FrgEELo/s1600/halloween-witch-decoration.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUwSz64e7biHh5B96Pq_s-RohOfv5GMkF6kkqMQ-DVijSiETboS9vSQFVIr-bUGB7NVPr8U4MNTds4KATHTdwkMYnbOaUrxRrEu7FubHI5UlkDETAECDfqSVc0fYzKIHYSRF6FrgEELo/s1600/halloween-witch-decoration.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>*CUE THEREMIN NOISES*</i></center>
<p>
Of course, no Halloween display is complete without an oldschool drug-store witch hanging overhead. The creepy <i>ooooooh-eeeee</i> theremin sound effects that emit from this thing will stick with me forever.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOoQMN0q0bAM9P8TV5MiHruu6amxxAuaVeCWhZapOuhQ60zUyQw0etH9zrF5gNaQWkTwjVonqwmHzhxE6WRmDpHn0WyGTSnssDSZQsLPajfxlna-ehqT5UGHrNFnwEhgdH7YGGarQ0nJA/s1600/halloween-dummy-display.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOoQMN0q0bAM9P8TV5MiHruu6amxxAuaVeCWhZapOuhQ60zUyQw0etH9zrF5gNaQWkTwjVonqwmHzhxE6WRmDpHn0WyGTSnssDSZQsLPajfxlna-ehqT5UGHrNFnwEhgdH7YGGarQ0nJA/s1600/halloween-dummy-display.JPG" /></a></div>
<p>
It's rad having a grandmother that's into this sort of thing. Putting these Halloween dummies together is something of a tradition for the two of us. I'm really glad I was able to make sure it continued on this year.
<p>
<i>For future post updates, check out Castle Geek-Skull on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-90479614907845763962015-10-27T21:50:00.000-04:002015-11-01T17:32:31.279-05:00Ultra Street Fighter IV Horror Costume Highlights<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Fr2vIi_dhjOJpjpnAEyujpPkCcWvMK97X7CHdEi9OQt7jElngePmzzjQ_A4II-su4PO8P4PAk6USctNYxoxPbrFH9UTtvZs1AlQ7qzNqnLQiSW8dKt25E1Q0qLQ0WY0M4qfCJ3AKpCg/s1600/sagat-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Fr2vIi_dhjOJpjpnAEyujpPkCcWvMK97X7CHdEi9OQt7jElngePmzzjQ_A4II-su4PO8P4PAk6USctNYxoxPbrFH9UTtvZs1AlQ7qzNqnLQiSW8dKt25E1Q0qLQ0WY0M4qfCJ3AKpCg/s1600/sagat-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Tiger clown horn!</i></center>
<p>
<i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QXJFE08/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00QXJFE08&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=32YFWH2T4PGKIY7W" target="_blank">Street Fighter V</a></i> might be right around the corner, but the crazy costume packs for its predecessor are far from over. Available now for every platform under the sun, the <i>Ultra Street Fighter IV</i> Horror Costume DLC packs have to be my favorite add-on yet. For your viewing pleasure, I've taken the time to highlight some of the best new outfits below. <i>Let's get freaky</i>.
<p>
<center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb1sYQwiDmsp4CFSlVYroijo-Q4UvB9Dvqxx-UFgLoWGcUG8o81gIBd8ZNA84ihY-6jIZhTJDbHp23Uiyz5wzXsashP75wek9S_qgU_EWwq65HZM_UY73OPSP6BaVyDQ8eRI7NN71O0rM/s1600/dan-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb1sYQwiDmsp4CFSlVYroijo-Q4UvB9Dvqxx-UFgLoWGcUG8o81gIBd8ZNA84ihY-6jIZhTJDbHp23Uiyz5wzXsashP75wek9S_qgU_EWwq65HZM_UY73OPSP6BaVyDQ8eRI7NN71O0rM/s1600/dan-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" /></a></div>
<p><a name='more'></a>
Dan's store-bought pumpkin get-up is adorable. <i>ABSOLUTELY FREAKIN' ADORABLE</i>.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7tzvERK5W9qFQjjHzvhTg4CIJ0LfNveHYKVjEBh72kER4cTK5MPHRadsSv2DzMWDsnbiY2GGFyod0yuOEutaqJrTOvgIirAWHz3hWvAWMP7ZGcoERR3vYA3JCf9lji0kl8kEUylF0UU/s1600/dee-jay-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7tzvERK5W9qFQjjHzvhTg4CIJ0LfNveHYKVjEBh72kER4cTK5MPHRadsSv2DzMWDsnbiY2GGFyod0yuOEutaqJrTOvgIirAWHz3hWvAWMP7ZGcoERR3vYA3JCf9lji0kl8kEUylF0UU/s1600/dee-jay-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Undead Dee Jay isn't the best design, but this closeup is the stuff of legends.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC253VDV5eS4E30Yk1MHVBUNRnED5c_rNLCZRmK5J0TdRiRg1ZVNfPTUycWeG4ZqklByxMCSRqBPhUmxBO6PG1uMknRiwU7JrwwOM9J_yoQRJrcp5QxxTT3PXJp4LCDVraoE736Y8q9pk/s1600/dudley-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC253VDV5eS4E30Yk1MHVBUNRnED5c_rNLCZRmK5J0TdRiRg1ZVNfPTUycWeG4ZqklByxMCSRqBPhUmxBO6PG1uMknRiwU7JrwwOM9J_yoQRJrcp5QxxTT3PXJp4LCDVraoE736Y8q9pk/s1600/dudley-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Even as a zombie, Dudley is as sophisticated as they come.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqcbO4yAyYHRruTbiVBsUPU1Hq4hRl0Rq3HZdKQRc2JXUuh0eHR4chBV731uOota1efBaFgiMrdKoBSfN4sx-qun-YaC0xsNGs9kc0dm1HWZtE_llZ1NyYPZGRzo5wXyXdg0P-tP8ranY/s1600/fei-long-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqcbO4yAyYHRruTbiVBsUPU1Hq4hRl0Rq3HZdKQRc2JXUuh0eHR4chBV731uOota1efBaFgiMrdKoBSfN4sx-qun-YaC0xsNGs9kc0dm1HWZtE_llZ1NyYPZGRzo5wXyXdg0P-tP8ranY/s1600/fei-long-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Fei Long might be the spookiest of the bunch. Threatening hand gestures go a long way!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6-PHAcOmqFcNaHvv_dSDZgRsVlAbCICNrUB8woe5XRbTOzlBD4YoF6rI6gyrZGVayHoOkg4NNccwOtch6ChrxqhiLf0SjyF8uMAGv-pTAx40Lyfp3YQG4IGX-Zb30Lkfyggswf8Gdyqk/s1600/gen-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6-PHAcOmqFcNaHvv_dSDZgRsVlAbCICNrUB8woe5XRbTOzlBD4YoF6rI6gyrZGVayHoOkg4NNccwOtch6ChrxqhiLf0SjyF8uMAGv-pTAx40Lyfp3YQG4IGX-Zb30Lkfyggswf8Gdyqk/s1600/gen-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Gen has either taken the guise of Death or recently raided a Spirit Halloween store. Who knows?!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRh4EqB7-wDBwz8d2VjZ4czuTo_7KCBrFnhXd-vO_AnZpmWpfSRAlYinpQsgIzCPen3MnV5TqlOsMhC9tvrldNxod85_dIuxyLD7u5-rYwgWDkOBPkWySt2QAzpGULCM25QestPRgQLE/s1600/hugo-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdRh4EqB7-wDBwz8d2VjZ4czuTo_7KCBrFnhXd-vO_AnZpmWpfSRAlYinpQsgIzCPen3MnV5TqlOsMhC9tvrldNxod85_dIuxyLD7u5-rYwgWDkOBPkWySt2QAzpGULCM25QestPRgQLE/s1600/hugo-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
The lumbering Hugo is less than graceful as is, making him a perfect base for Frankenstein's Monster.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga2E9dBCm5M1Tik9Dc_Gd4hvGwkO4C8korH2FYjIjT_jLXzpCjvOHRLsCkKw5O9w39X2_AQioXImTapE6fHrW7OonFAdo5QPd-ZkjbKBv_11kFWyPKQfsf31yOlNtxENLA0MF-agqUVvQ/s1600/ibuki-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga2E9dBCm5M1Tik9Dc_Gd4hvGwkO4C8korH2FYjIjT_jLXzpCjvOHRLsCkKw5O9w39X2_AQioXImTapE6fHrW7OonFAdo5QPd-ZkjbKBv_11kFWyPKQfsf31yOlNtxENLA0MF-agqUVvQ/s1600/ibuki-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Ibuki is a huge stand out, especially whenever she launches into her standard smiling animations.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3yg1evEB6q5Tuju7R26S75TG77_1lA1AaRTGx7hvtiwDuUdhkAvSALWjefagxHd268Q5ZdUuVhY3Jtp1HeSJmLVrro15zhV0bZcK1oIplOtvaB8To-pYc8-sfFeGnKKTsUvrekXBP6OY/s1600/juri-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3yg1evEB6q5Tuju7R26S75TG77_1lA1AaRTGx7hvtiwDuUdhkAvSALWjefagxHd268Q5ZdUuVhY3Jtp1HeSJmLVrro15zhV0bZcK1oIplOtvaB8To-pYc8-sfFeGnKKTsUvrekXBP6OY/s1600/juri-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Juri's jester attire is sure to remind most people of Harley Quinn. No complaints here!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoHrUMUmDQf3oWB_BfFTRVOnggSjouuhEaPquOgYV7tyrUO3M2JS9tbgfsRfWVBYB5mHZF-Ag9W9h-4IPLA0s67N-3NSZ5P8XMhg2iPOHM2RaRAy1se9eiFM7XG0bWlWRjuYd2QIPOn4/s1600/rolento-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoHrUMUmDQf3oWB_BfFTRVOnggSjouuhEaPquOgYV7tyrUO3M2JS9tbgfsRfWVBYB5mHZF-Ag9W9h-4IPLA0s67N-3NSZ5P8XMhg2iPOHM2RaRAy1se9eiFM7XG0bWlWRjuYd2QIPOn4/s1600/rolento-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Rolento's acrobatic play-style is more dashing than ever thanks to the swanky new vampire digs.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhzSDiuBjGiDlY_sFO12qHwf4twg6QNYRvv_6vCUPkfcUnlogX4R2bNdbHNNWQuH7R-rymN8oPBc7LuQSbWufmVAK530TEXIQhR8PKlU7MY8eGT187-_zAK5bWhLN9As3SEJtyH8aN5LM/s1600/rose-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv-illusion-spark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhzSDiuBjGiDlY_sFO12qHwf4twg6QNYRvv_6vCUPkfcUnlogX4R2bNdbHNNWQuH7R-rymN8oPBc7LuQSbWufmVAK530TEXIQhR8PKlU7MY8eGT187-_zAK5bWhLN9As3SEJtyH8aN5LM/s1600/rose-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv-illusion-spark.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Rose's witch outfit is my absolute favorite. The color scheme, armor binding, and gigantic hat are <i>perfect</i>.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRNOec88plN7y_ttRM4i-q5BqjZTp3wW3uuLZAT05ax9_832qQ1iTsn3LCH6fq0rYtnUvhmhgU2mkoPG0n-Ha_zMPvFdI0JOnzhzOcTM6onNcksvRPYsadt2rHKpz3Wfj6zIymwcavPY/s1600/ryu-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHRNOec88plN7y_ttRM4i-q5BqjZTp3wW3uuLZAT05ax9_832qQ1iTsn3LCH6fq0rYtnUvhmhgU2mkoPG0n-Ha_zMPvFdI0JOnzhzOcTM6onNcksvRPYsadt2rHKpz3Wfj6zIymwcavPY/s1600/ryu-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
There's no way anyone could've seen this one coming. Ryu is a goddamn zombie groom. <i>A ZOMBIE GROOM</i>!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBfw8WdM8SrreGF8bp0qPPkVVUWCC1Oso4FB837w_EQm9hZ1NrOHiM-OQrZjiLmxuvlVSpBF83ml-kjo9ZrsgNBdPCwm1dAbri7rkXFnI-U4my98JH-f1HbgHWa5o8f-N7lNhX01xZ260/s1600/seth-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBfw8WdM8SrreGF8bp0qPPkVVUWCC1Oso4FB837w_EQm9hZ1NrOHiM-OQrZjiLmxuvlVSpBF83ml-kjo9ZrsgNBdPCwm1dAbri7rkXFnI-U4my98JH-f1HbgHWa5o8f-N7lNhX01xZ260/s1600/seth-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAOnAuSGNEy3orCzUgyVEMZs9DOZzO-ejl78CQaqxErJ3RyyehqsEeHcOm8_5kyzIFKFRxtjxczRcY8p06UMhJbpOmJCZ-j1dpm-PTNusPy852JhOm-eLbuMRQB_IXraAlO82LRXB3Yrg/s1600/seth-horror-costume-tanden-engine-jack-o-lantern-pumpkin-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAOnAuSGNEy3orCzUgyVEMZs9DOZzO-ejl78CQaqxErJ3RyyehqsEeHcOm8_5kyzIFKFRxtjxczRcY8p06UMhJbpOmJCZ-j1dpm-PTNusPy852JhOm-eLbuMRQB_IXraAlO82LRXB3Yrg/s1600/seth-horror-costume-tanden-engine-jack-o-lantern-pumpkin-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Seth almost didn't make the cut, but that jack-o'-lantern Tanden Engine is just too good.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPWTVjRffbl2mo2Cf0OqPGjmRr2Y8E3su2Eu5FjK6kWTtr7uy1Ha7dxP2CoVXmIB8mpdypEQIo7Syk5YZP5mFqrz2uH_dMyu6gC3VEVMexawT1bjka1YIIwUeJ_JkYcw6RHshCRMxM5I/s1600/t-hawk-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPWTVjRffbl2mo2Cf0OqPGjmRr2Y8E3su2Eu5FjK6kWTtr7uy1Ha7dxP2CoVXmIB8mpdypEQIo7Syk5YZP5mFqrz2uH_dMyu6gC3VEVMexawT1bjka1YIIwUeJ_JkYcw6RHshCRMxM5I/s1600/t-hawk-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
I'm not sure I want to know what kind of weird-ass rituals T. Hawk is involved in these days.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEhMJJilpwwahZEmiEvp5ZLBdL3_qcjiKdM6YOv3P2zt-apLjR4FLGNQTQ3iWGoB9aW11Y9jEX-y-iJTIT6ssyH7LkK3FIxdwSu6MqKQ7rvjh1N7N2_xgS9JfZfPPbg3Y41lFoXkhnPX8/s1600/zangief-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEhMJJilpwwahZEmiEvp5ZLBdL3_qcjiKdM6YOv3P2zt-apLjR4FLGNQTQ3iWGoB9aW11Y9jEX-y-iJTIT6ssyH7LkK3FIxdwSu6MqKQ7rvjh1N7N2_xgS9JfZfPPbg3Y41lFoXkhnPX8/s1600/zangief-horror-costume-ultra-street-fighter-iv.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Finally, Zangief is a freaking metal-studded grave digger. It'd be impossible for me not to love this.</center>
<p>
To see these horrific beauties and all their cohorts in motion, you can check out the full trailer below:
<p>
<center><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JaOnTN8zV90" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></center>
<p>
<i>Hey! If you want to keep up with future Castle Geek-Skull posts, feel free to follow on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-84754348304399475272015-10-26T19:09:00.000-04:002015-11-01T08:23:25.512-05:00Castle Geek-Skull's Super Important Pumpkin Spice Oreo Review <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwPxx5fHOIULU-vv1h-BREXWee83dUgbkxSqAxWTW2UwdyasgOKm5qyRQumHMpKwZrzXri1kr-Pugwl9TGhDJLFBGpM-w4Hm9uLtPEM5VAVVr57RhvwqgL-Wsk08kHDA7gAKL5Az5AbAA/s1600/pumpkin-spice-oreo-logo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwPxx5fHOIULU-vv1h-BREXWee83dUgbkxSqAxWTW2UwdyasgOKm5qyRQumHMpKwZrzXri1kr-Pugwl9TGhDJLFBGpM-w4Hm9uLtPEM5VAVVr57RhvwqgL-Wsk08kHDA7gAKL5Az5AbAA/s1600/pumpkin-spice-oreo-logo.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Time to go all out with some serious health food, kids!</i></center>
<p>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015DECKM8/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B015DECKM8&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=LSPDSYOJWPWXSWS2" target="_blank">Pumpkin Spice Oreos</a> are here to grace grocery store shelves yet again! I never spotted them during their initial run in the 2014 Halloween season, and I assumed I may have missed out entirely. Not one to let second-chances slip by, I'm pleased to take the plunge and see what these bastards are all about!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZWUdYX-CcuwXXgLJYV6BBQ8F_LeTKxOF2Zz1Fc8vewUsk6dyMd97XSQcXSaOfyZm8oIiOUOxkk4oeodG_HLdvbafMZehe9DFyAdiQrdOWQ9mKhswy7LR4xa03h_FgKCWHxDE7W4w9iS4/s1600/pumpkin-spice-oreo-package-front.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZWUdYX-CcuwXXgLJYV6BBQ8F_LeTKxOF2Zz1Fc8vewUsk6dyMd97XSQcXSaOfyZm8oIiOUOxkk4oeodG_HLdvbafMZehe9DFyAdiQrdOWQ9mKhswy7LR4xa03h_FgKCWHxDE7W4w9iS4/s1600/pumpkin-spice-oreo-package-front.JPG" /></a></div>
<p><a name='more'></a>
Boom, here's the fancy-schmancy packaging. It'd be a lot more fun with goofy witches and ghosts slapped all over the place, but these aren't <i>exclusively</i> for Halloween. Even so, the purported pumpkin flavor makes them just adjacent enough to tap into the vein. <i>The spooky vein.</i>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaapDIt8164MJlDom8xFKJjGzLeqJmBXOKvB6tP-_PiR7HceWHFz-zPEkgHVsLhpooRNLx73nNd1x0p2XW1ifWazPgKinZ0GBe0NcY4ZfGSCRnodSvNiD_yL_Ak9ud60CoGCmEeoE7yJQ/s1600/oreo-flavors-pumpkin-spice-mint-lemon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaapDIt8164MJlDom8xFKJjGzLeqJmBXOKvB6tP-_PiR7HceWHFz-zPEkgHVsLhpooRNLx73nNd1x0p2XW1ifWazPgKinZ0GBe0NcY4ZfGSCRnodSvNiD_yL_Ak9ud60CoGCmEeoE7yJQ/s1600/oreo-flavors-pumpkin-spice-mint-lemon.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>...or else what, Oreo? OR ELSE WHAT?!?!</i></center>
<p>
Ah, good old fashioned cross-sell marketing. I'd be down to try every weird-ass Oreo flavor that comes out, but I never see them available in smaller assortments. Having nearly a pound of cookies in my pantry at once is a dangerous proposal. I gave in to the 10-ounce variety here for the hell of it, but it still feels like way too much.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbv1bLDLHRS5-gxoc8oscZfOKKJ71wS097iwy9y-KIu3HmCw8KDDb_AJy5QXm098KGP22jx9sw8lcfZcUY45dEo0UrfXQxZ_64KCkBiTLOaJQnftySfkSdiDrQTZhaDjBpgaW5z-4GQaI/s1600/pumpkin-spice-oreo-nutrition-facts.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbv1bLDLHRS5-gxoc8oscZfOKKJ71wS097iwy9y-KIu3HmCw8KDDb_AJy5QXm098KGP22jx9sw8lcfZcUY45dEo0UrfXQxZ_64KCkBiTLOaJQnftySfkSdiDrQTZhaDjBpgaW5z-4GQaI/s1600/pumpkin-spice-oreo-nutrition-facts.JPG" /></a></div>
<p>
Man, it's probably best not to even look at the nutrition facts. There's only one way to indulge in Oreo cookies, and that's taking a blood oath to eat every damn one of 'em. I'll totally work out afterwards. <i>I promise</i>.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrujK1W-j8JMG1_pLIGDECFe7amlI_QCmA7tHcw2ZzJ3UNrD7NPK330vPFfQX23iiopq_5FCNL4iknV3R2LgmkJexqrbySVzumpAGBHZAYB_LreNqywgLHzWMdGlg0yXv3BfqBHR9IPk/s1600/pumpkin-spice-oreo-cookies-detail.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrujK1W-j8JMG1_pLIGDECFe7amlI_QCmA7tHcw2ZzJ3UNrD7NPK330vPFfQX23iiopq_5FCNL4iknV3R2LgmkJexqrbySVzumpAGBHZAYB_LreNqywgLHzWMdGlg0yXv3BfqBHR9IPk/s1600/pumpkin-spice-oreo-cookies-detail.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>*gasp*</i></center>
<p>
Here they are. Golden Oreos with pumpkin spice creme filling. There's just one more step before trying them!
<p>
<i>Let's see...</i>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLCM-qNv1KmqD19JLjtAgFxdxFQPwM774lo46jMszvbdLkz5LTkLOCXv908Gw5sbOQVxc53r_5iJmSyLzqipyPhvyP6MdWdvsnCYxCMjC417ykuv28xcKNbvY5fiZ_CSuM3pIk6WyUgE/s1600/pumpkin-spice-oreo-halloween-party-treats.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLCM-qNv1KmqD19JLjtAgFxdxFQPwM774lo46jMszvbdLkz5LTkLOCXv908Gw5sbOQVxc53r_5iJmSyLzqipyPhvyP6MdWdvsnCYxCMjC417ykuv28xcKNbvY5fiZ_CSuM3pIk6WyUgE/s1600/pumpkin-spice-oreo-halloween-party-treats.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Such production value~</i></center>
<p>
Yeah, that's right. Presentation is king, and this is fancy as fancy gets. Halloween party for one, coming right up! BTW, I'm available 24/7 for emergency event planning services. Hit me up; <i>I'll make your shit all kinds of hype</i>.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVlx1AKAZYjXZGkzbvZPVaSRqIA0G0nwU1Y0EQRWghd_371L9JsVH221vB2iKv-7Cw31slrFU5wUzPMf8b1ck4iNz9Ip4G5KiALtz8KmI6sZs5CVhqqHp4wcgP7c50G82jT3U6sXb09mo/s1600/pumpkin-spice-oreo-cookies.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVlx1AKAZYjXZGkzbvZPVaSRqIA0G0nwU1Y0EQRWghd_371L9JsVH221vB2iKv-7Cw31slrFU5wUzPMf8b1ck4iNz9Ip4G5KiALtz8KmI6sZs5CVhqqHp4wcgP7c50G82jT3U6sXb09mo/s1600/pumpkin-spice-oreo-cookies.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Mastication inbound.</i></center>
<p>
I did it. I did the thing. As it turns out, I actually dig the flavor quite a lot. Yeah, it's heavy on the cinnamon, but it did bring up memories of pumpkin pies long past. Maybe it's the allure of trying them for the first time, but I'm feeling pretty tempted to buy these again. <i>Damn it</i>.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSjbqBiPxK9WEMkifoorhskmhlZiThhBXYFEzPfh5jnIDap4ihtyy6YVQ3vag3C0B9zmun_M3nBJOWmsPZZVG7JaKwyvSFUTupGbK3R2LZcUlT-dDqo9Hw7APgPhRdTdixb9J2kdq3R9I/s1600/pumpkin-spice-oreo-package-opened.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSjbqBiPxK9WEMkifoorhskmhlZiThhBXYFEzPfh5jnIDap4ihtyy6YVQ3vag3C0B9zmun_M3nBJOWmsPZZVG7JaKwyvSFUTupGbK3R2LZcUlT-dDqo9Hw7APgPhRdTdixb9J2kdq3R9I/s1600/pumpkin-spice-oreo-package-opened.JPG" /></a></div>
<p>
I'm always conflicted when I dive into sugary sweets for Castle Geek-Skull. I definitely want the content, but there's always a tinge of guilt over barraging myself with carbs and preservatives. Fortunately, Pumpkin Spice Oreo cookies are enjoyable enough to make it all feel worth it. I even got some sweet nostalgic vibes in the process!
<p>
And with that, the transformation is complete. I am the King of Fall, powered by cookies. <i>Fear me</i>.
<p>
<i>For future Castle Geek-Skull adventures, keep up with us on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>! </i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-86415939557365354282015-08-31T21:30:00.000-04:002015-11-03T11:16:26.437-05:00The First Spooky Sightings Of Halloween 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUfUid6i3DZaftdTPWn5MU7DkZjgb-uP1dvhAslUiss50bgP0OVzoKjNhm7IqntHPrX5irrBdoYNJ-N_jc5ia6kAzO_jVpRBf0IniKPzB3Uky3_pgK5dn7NgoQQAHyg1MHDxyiqXS05rg/s1600/spooky-sightings-halloween-2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUfUid6i3DZaftdTPWn5MU7DkZjgb-uP1dvhAslUiss50bgP0OVzoKjNhm7IqntHPrX5irrBdoYNJ-N_jc5ia6kAzO_jVpRBf0IniKPzB3Uky3_pgK5dn7NgoQQAHyg1MHDxyiqXS05rg/s1600/spooky-sightings-halloween-2015.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Complete with Creepy, Crappy Collages!</i></center>
<p>
The end of August is always a magical time. Summer and its nasty humidity-filled heat are slowly dying down, and the Halloween season is right around the corner. I'm about to friggin' <i>squee</i>.
<p>
In fact, the glorious fall holiday has already begun to rear its head. I'm seeing beautifully tacky decorations and fun candy assortments pop up all over the place. It would be impossible to keep my excitement in check, so I might as well share it with the internet! Here are some of my first spooky sightings of Halloween 2015!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYlcR3s4fTJHm9A3sz5dqy49CLiOrlBpf1TMxBE4De7aC04bhrJXThlnSkHDoaHwg8Pn-lQAWYzid7uwLxZan7WAivfBICkn-VfIbz9k3tDrFtARvNDHLtG6bt8UDkir014c97hG5WtzE/s1600/beetlejuice-plush-toy-crane-catcher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYlcR3s4fTJHm9A3sz5dqy49CLiOrlBpf1TMxBE4De7aC04bhrJXThlnSkHDoaHwg8Pn-lQAWYzid7uwLxZan7WAivfBICkn-VfIbz9k3tDrFtARvNDHLtG6bt8UDkir014c97hG5WtzE/s1600/beetlejuice-plush-toy-crane-catcher.jpg" /></a></div>
<p><a name='more'></a>
May as well kick things off with a bang! I can't tell you how much it pleased me to find this Betelgeuse plush toy staring at me from inside my local grocery store's crane catcher machine. It's going to be pretty hard not to waste endless dollars trying to win this ugly bastard.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHmF7us8jnpEjlYVB_nhjPBzBGjKYtqeYXSagDyXq0QWFv_LOk_gADu-fYfrF2tsVnZDYf8YyZ6WzeoU5fSfDHgGwAYDKM5mnux3X394wWj8Lx1icvR0zY9DeeOt9vl5tlQVnzmuoVX7g/s1600/michaels-halloween-decorations-2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHmF7us8jnpEjlYVB_nhjPBzBGjKYtqeYXSagDyXq0QWFv_LOk_gADu-fYfrF2tsVnZDYf8YyZ6WzeoU5fSfDHgGwAYDKM5mnux3X394wWj8Lx1icvR0zY9DeeOt9vl5tlQVnzmuoVX7g/s1600/michaels-halloween-decorations-2015.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
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<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTUWJyTdUe2SoX5crM7Eofg2dCnq5q4r4RVFyHcrxcAE4FPD15SRrPX4zFAHoSvaYcLumNKnYkQ0-76Nj-xCjvDJ54vF69xxM-WMrIuHIHZ8F1KWIdukJ8AnofK8YlmjIR_6S-BTMfiqo/s1600/skeleton-halloween-decorations-2015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTUWJyTdUe2SoX5crM7Eofg2dCnq5q4r4RVFyHcrxcAE4FPD15SRrPX4zFAHoSvaYcLumNKnYkQ0-76Nj-xCjvDJ54vF69xxM-WMrIuHIHZ8F1KWIdukJ8AnofK8YlmjIR_6S-BTMfiqo/s1600/skeleton-halloween-decorations-2015.JPG" /></a></div>
<p>
All of these were found at Michaels Arts & Crafts. The price tags tend to soar in there, but it's fantastic to raid for clearance sales later on. I'm actually eyeing that "Scary Hall." It'd make a fine base for a <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2014/10/the-halloween-mood.html" target="_blank">Halloween Mood Table</a>!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYWhoJiGQbJKhuvtUOEFfYHVISVKMy-bEpjyRaup42GlU_8fgj7ayoUejY3LvD1hBdf7bFrhxhokwURS1S4mZLU4eWeYFlR80xXVTgkhygjhN38K7xUyU5ZuB3vCW6uYmg5NjHqGNwNb8/s1600/halloween-hanging-decorations-2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYWhoJiGQbJKhuvtUOEFfYHVISVKMy-bEpjyRaup42GlU_8fgj7ayoUejY3LvD1hBdf7bFrhxhokwURS1S4mZLU4eWeYFlR80xXVTgkhygjhN38K7xUyU5ZuB3vCW6uYmg5NjHqGNwNb8/s1600/halloween-hanging-decorations-2015.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
This affable gentleman was found hanging in Party City. He has the "cold toilet seat" face down to a science.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszg2FKyf_OUtQpDRqn8TqFobwt4faN6nfFtnM5DoDZOROCvX3D1foJP16VTc3LfpiBMTw2eO9VEiwa1uX_xq9vXmuVsQFbfYmhSW1PXeGYkXcfizfkKMMNebD5SSK9cewwF-a3NMES4c/s1600/ouija-board-pillow-ross.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszg2FKyf_OUtQpDRqn8TqFobwt4faN6nfFtnM5DoDZOROCvX3D1foJP16VTc3LfpiBMTw2eO9VEiwa1uX_xq9vXmuVsQFbfYmhSW1PXeGYkXcfizfkKMMNebD5SSK9cewwF-a3NMES4c/s1600/ouija-board-pillow-ross.jpg" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOW9jLa3-k_qvlpyWh7nEd2jto4cDDYKrE96PYxVEPzz8IcJUYuEObfpziGNL1aOcKh6LV_dChw6nLCYlP715dtL6J_YXMohvSaCyDgOHQPYa-rC8TGyk3CkN8TJlpurSaGB3bwkU_RQ/s1600/ross-halloween-decorations-2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOW9jLa3-k_qvlpyWh7nEd2jto4cDDYKrE96PYxVEPzz8IcJUYuEObfpziGNL1aOcKh6LV_dChw6nLCYlP715dtL6J_YXMohvSaCyDgOHQPYa-rC8TGyk3CkN8TJlpurSaGB3bwkU_RQ/s1600/ross-halloween-decorations-2015.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Ross Dress For Less also has several tables worth of spooky goods on display. I was especially fond of their pillows. It's not every day you randomly run into Ouija board bedding!
<p>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKLXXnzRc3DEEK5NCBy7ZfI0-hjADtY4ejsjD7k_UkLCTtHByewdEMgBmjXZ8dUND9STVsXiYGIutNgqK_8z7LvcovF6SWvEfRWFomtaZ_hKWg2E4rC6FEsglSoj7EFsLO6SC7DC0dq_M/s1600/halloween-2015-batman-costume-candy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKLXXnzRc3DEEK5NCBy7ZfI0-hjADtY4ejsjD7k_UkLCTtHByewdEMgBmjXZ8dUND9STVsXiYGIutNgqK_8z7LvcovF6SWvEfRWFomtaZ_hKWg2E4rC6FEsglSoj7EFsLO6SC7DC0dq_M/s1600/halloween-2015-batman-costume-candy.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Of course, various treats, costumes, and cheapo toys are already lining grocery shelves. Call 'em "Fall Party Cakes" all you want, Little Debbie. We all know what we're meant to celebrate with those hexagonal little desserts.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Wdc_57sMQbCrumfWfLdOc-0loD762avJHb6YNO-sGeLwC9AtYNNjM1O3tZjXVFoybHMwsirjLMAmVh4mrTtGtS8lq-Ft3wxc4xNL5_vmYps09i2AkGtN0VcHvCxPGg8z5iBPWesJkjE/s1600/krackel-hershey-candy-bar-full-package.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Wdc_57sMQbCrumfWfLdOc-0loD762avJHb6YNO-sGeLwC9AtYNNjM1O3tZjXVFoybHMwsirjLMAmVh4mrTtGtS8lq-Ft3wxc4xNL5_vmYps09i2AkGtN0VcHvCxPGg8z5iBPWesJkjE/s1600/krackel-hershey-candy-bar-full-package.JPG" /></a></div>
<p>
I even managed to find a single-packed Krackel. Motherflippin' <i>KRACKEL</i>, son! As one of <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2014/10/5-sugary-standbys-of-halloween.html" target="_blank">Halloween's sugary standbys</a>, there's no way I was leaving the store without one.
<p>
Oh, and as a bonus: I spotted plenty more awesome crane catcher toys alongside Betelgeuse! Check 'em out!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9xiBsLQj6mmlBXlv76aFMPHlL3igLbH1C2UywDsgxn5mOLXJyYaNzLx05Ru9gM9oBNLMY7NB-e5KgWalMIYdVNlnG-UN-vyF0dnOV3uMbhY7TzcWAZUFk2_rbIPLrUkOyZEDhvp9_K8U/s1600/jason-bride-of-frankenstein-wolfman-halloween-plush-toy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9xiBsLQj6mmlBXlv76aFMPHlL3igLbH1C2UywDsgxn5mOLXJyYaNzLx05Ru9gM9oBNLMY7NB-e5KgWalMIYdVNlnG-UN-vyF0dnOV3uMbhY7TzcWAZUFk2_rbIPLrUkOyZEDhvp9_K8U/s1600/jason-bride-of-frankenstein-wolfman-halloween-plush-toy.jpg" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq4kZ6Wmc4c5kHFmYBsHinCLulfijxtDufViJMpSeKLgL2dUV1qjbfK5VnpzIyXbCK7sxibtSv1_WPei89JxqRlDqqvvK1inzUb2-nZIeX0A43cXBoheNfekxQKoOSCbAFTLqFP1fhK4c/s1600/dracula-plush-toy-crane-catcher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq4kZ6Wmc4c5kHFmYBsHinCLulfijxtDufViJMpSeKLgL2dUV1qjbfK5VnpzIyXbCK7sxibtSv1_WPei89JxqRlDqqvvK1inzUb2-nZIeX0A43cXBoheNfekxQKoOSCbAFTLqFP1fhK4c/s1600/dracula-plush-toy-crane-catcher.jpg" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ_w5tjNIi5oOCHQbA22niIRxRey8s40BOyyHfNlLyRVxANqNCO3wSLZgd0M9fqikXd9qxiO3xvBJ6l_NsKEeX2aPJLIGtB2vsi22hiBFOBQqaicEE4BW-1FSCvieq0zmc9U3osIFJPG8/s1600/freddy-krueger-nightmare-on-elm-street-plush-toy-crane-catcher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ_w5tjNIi5oOCHQbA22niIRxRey8s40BOyyHfNlLyRVxANqNCO3wSLZgd0M9fqikXd9qxiO3xvBJ6l_NsKEeX2aPJLIGtB2vsi22hiBFOBQqaicEE4BW-1FSCvieq0zmc9U3osIFJPG8/s1600/freddy-krueger-nightmare-on-elm-street-plush-toy-crane-catcher.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
I know it's a bit hypocritical to get riled up over early Halloween sightings given my disdain for the preemptive assault of Christmas, but <i>screw it</i>. I've always had an unabashed love for October's crowning holiday. Seeing the nonsense above has prompted an extra spring or two in my step. I get the feeling that the Halloween season of 2015 is going to be a good one!
<p>
<i>Thanks for stopping by. You can always watch for more CGS updates on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-68121969617793687202015-08-11T18:32:00.000-04:002015-08-29T20:28:23.964-04:00Transformers Combiner Wars Silverbolt Toy Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYi3wgGNTJnDeT7PnT27S_gBz7JuyMVCscuufnE-fNLodD7j2Kmn5lVSCvXaCRy_Ctq_AvbutlQiSe7Z6qgShrk8MeIR3mCtacMg0ELAxJ_171QmquCVV2ABG-xcaFNsrya2_srKY0F-k/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-robot-closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYi3wgGNTJnDeT7PnT27S_gBz7JuyMVCscuufnE-fNLodD7j2Kmn5lVSCvXaCRy_Ctq_AvbutlQiSe7Z6qgShrk8MeIR3mCtacMg0ELAxJ_171QmquCVV2ABG-xcaFNsrya2_srKY0F-k/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-robot-closeup.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Aerial Robot Individual</i></center>
<p>
It's been over a freakin' <i>year</i> since we were given our first glimpse of the initial Transformers Combiner Wars line-up, and Silverbolt has remained firmly atop my wishlist ever since. Alongside his wave-mate <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2015/08/combiner-wars-optimus-review.html" target="_blank">Optimus Prime</a>, the guys at <a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/aff-home.asp?id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Entertainment Earth</a> have allowed me to finally give the iconic Aerialbot leader a look. Let's do it!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirIEx6BVk0odmRxy4pzCyUPcJ3sETVAnV8Ghsf5gt6DDZcec-ytbTitaM3s1laAX6dTekjULzVhv_p3KUucMOP71wHx7YGTHBNVOYOP5jgyE5oDX1kXatO0PFwd6ac3kE-aY_SRXgjq1s/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-robot-mode.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirIEx6BVk0odmRxy4pzCyUPcJ3sETVAnV8Ghsf5gt6DDZcec-ytbTitaM3s1laAX6dTekjULzVhv_p3KUucMOP71wHx7YGTHBNVOYOP5jgyE5oDX1kXatO0PFwd6ac3kE-aY_SRXgjq1s/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-robot-mode.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>"I don't know what to do with my hands."</i></center>
<p><a name='more'></a>
Combiner Wars Silverbolt blends a close mimicry of the G1 design with a solid handful of proportional improvements. Even with the trademark boxy shoulders and huge honkin' lower legs, he feels downright <i>svelte</i>. That goes double after handling the hulking Optimus he shares the shelves with.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHg6AqriwN7p8fzQZt_jzSkTAc3qZawakOIsZETXOSZ40lE81-YCq_zhthIBzieMXlP_tDgrtPd2N1isP9VEJi35P3TW967YilLPqQrAZgLiUMQwOjf_XkzYBqsgrGIXHT2BFpzln7MO8/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-brawl-pose.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHg6AqriwN7p8fzQZt_jzSkTAc3qZawakOIsZETXOSZ40lE81-YCq_zhthIBzieMXlP_tDgrtPd2N1isP9VEJi35P3TW967YilLPqQrAZgLiUMQwOjf_XkzYBqsgrGIXHT2BFpzln7MO8/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-brawl-pose.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Function: Aerialbot Leader. Sub-Function: Puncher of faces.</i></center>
<p>
The trim aesthetic is only bolstered by the foldable wings, a carry-over from the original toy. While they tab snugly into the jet's adorable little canards, I prefer angling them outwards for a further dash of <a href="http://i.imgur.com/aUfkZR5.jpg" target="_blank">old-school character model</a> allure. Fortunately, the joints are more than sturdy enough to keep them in place.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDEc7ce2yLQi6zbaI-fRmCczCyXYOF5rbV2oLzS646qCl0cSqDB_BtAlsKKw7Isq00pehc0AMh2L1QQlU-3V69nkNA4Js7tWWmeTwDOX3o2Og_RIUikOGtzHZHFbdMk5MlUZ5PKBAeEMU/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-robot-back.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDEc7ce2yLQi6zbaI-fRmCczCyXYOF5rbV2oLzS646qCl0cSqDB_BtAlsKKw7Isq00pehc0AMh2L1QQlU-3V69nkNA4Js7tWWmeTwDOX3o2Og_RIUikOGtzHZHFbdMk5MlUZ5PKBAeEMU/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-robot-back.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>You know you'd still "swipe right."</i></center>
<p>
The obligatory backpack-o-plane-parts still isn't much to look at, but you know what? I don't give a single flip. <i>Not one</i>. I don't think I <i>ever</i> look at the backs of these toys outside of review purposes. I can understand if you find it personally off-putting, but don't forget that it could've easily been <a href="http://www.seibertron.com/transformers-toys/view/classics-universe/silverbolt/1551/1/70/" target="_blank">much, much worse</a>.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmbELzPUGau5ZlQ0Fdt1QCnNUWJIqGLBKWPxis86eGCzj7JX-GcQ-Yvo0TqPiMWfBN2LEe087er4GUgO8FQOs1lwO90kkyPTQxLRObuCCeVtMaoyRCqZzl2Y2I6SJp7NzhOb70hb_RuA/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-rifle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmbELzPUGau5ZlQ0Fdt1QCnNUWJIqGLBKWPxis86eGCzj7JX-GcQ-Yvo0TqPiMWfBN2LEe087er4GUgO8FQOs1lwO90kkyPTQxLRObuCCeVtMaoyRCqZzl2Y2I6SJp7NzhOb70hb_RuA/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-rifle.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Definitely not a "grower."</i></center>
<p>
When it comes to weaponry, ol' Silverbolt is seriously packin' some heat. His original rifle has been updated into a terrifyingly long-barreled monstrosity whose rear splits off into a spiffy-keen shield of sorts. Unfortunately, a small clearance issue between the fist-hinges and gunstock makes for a loose grip on the primary component.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuOet4CTcn4_FvRkUqozX9QzVjwgi91E2CLsyC4ceaxHe44xopM7_hcRLgcOEGN9J9ubWX6GJgHt1T_H5rEX-kbcRVUrLsy-yRHtNHGDWyAFOoz-UQeCJ7MYJGeUrmK88qkLEtV5Zru_4/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-armed-pose.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuOet4CTcn4_FvRkUqozX9QzVjwgi91E2CLsyC4ceaxHe44xopM7_hcRLgcOEGN9J9ubWX6GJgHt1T_H5rEX-kbcRVUrLsy-yRHtNHGDWyAFOoz-UQeCJ7MYJGeUrmK88qkLEtV5Zru_4/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-armed-pose.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Stretchin' and shootin'. It's like...Pew-Pew Pilates.</i></center>
<p>
Fortunately, there are plenty of other options at hand. First up, it's easy enough to just slap the rifle onto the open forearm. Megatron would be proud.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE4GoyN4FWhlnalmc37qmPWb1k_l4gu4aebOqb0PPk1rk73fVLkVZEwzKZb7JDXCp0lsMtGUO1DcUXMFhtbtrdmvKcmZ_WiVysnWiANYW7RJQgDS0sdg90Hsz9oeFd9JhB58040H0Axr0/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-combined-gun.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE4GoyN4FWhlnalmc37qmPWb1k_l4gu4aebOqb0PPk1rk73fVLkVZEwzKZb7JDXCp0lsMtGUO1DcUXMFhtbtrdmvKcmZ_WiVysnWiANYW7RJQgDS0sdg90Hsz9oeFd9JhB58040H0Axr0/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-combined-gun.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Somebody cue the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avJqMDaaDNs" target="_blank">Golgo 13 soundtrack</a>!</i></center>
<p>
It's pretty impractical to let 'Bolty one-hand the fully combined weapon, but the articulation <i>just barely</i> allows a swanky two-handed sniping pose. You might have to hold your breath for it to line up properly, but it's worth it.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikFOs8PVw1TX0R2LL0vfXnDCLhyAJrrPI95gl_-qsvWcZSdeRELoz2TbQy5wa4z35O1W7lMWNDPr8ORyPG2U3pAJ8N9F1mGsWGBAJc6r0JNryuQKGnbva3t6r6hRUVhI0EvwLW2yXWNDc/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-gun-fan-mode.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikFOs8PVw1TX0R2LL0vfXnDCLhyAJrrPI95gl_-qsvWcZSdeRELoz2TbQy5wa4z35O1W7lMWNDPr8ORyPG2U3pAJ8N9F1mGsWGBAJc6r0JNryuQKGnbva3t6r6hRUVhI0EvwLW2yXWNDc/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-gun-fan-mode.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Guys, is this dumb? I think this might be dumb.</i></center>
<p>
While that was undoubtedly a cool discovery, I'm never content until I've thrown the accessories into every conceivable arrangement. Rest assured, we have more <a href="http://i.imgur.com/ipfzs36.jpg" target="_blank">double-barreled Mamow Nadon nonsense</a> on deck.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkff4ho-jL1_hm7r3ZaxDyeptKszW9iy0-X1B-PCkKGzjUtVVPwIECZwkCoO_CsRs2ZXO0JvN3WY8I1OUoOyLAO5JOVH_tKWAqyCqNVRshIbpYu-_ktsn5og6rZZimTqbHFMu8OQiSXms/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-shoulder-mounted-gun.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkff4ho-jL1_hm7r3ZaxDyeptKszW9iy0-X1B-PCkKGzjUtVVPwIECZwkCoO_CsRs2ZXO0JvN3WY8I1OUoOyLAO5JOVH_tKWAqyCqNVRshIbpYu-_ktsn5og6rZZimTqbHFMu8OQiSXms/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-shoulder-mounted-gun.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>On the other hand, this is rather swell.</i></center>
<p>
Shoulder-mounting the rifle is the real star of the futzing-around show however. Never before has a landing-gear hinge been more fortuitous!
<p>
And while we're on the subject of unintentionally useful joints, the chest and neck can be <a href=" https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji17nhFtxOvRiv0l1kRs9fyYryCEQQeFo8p9k3_mefAmj2dJiiesgjkB8ng7Pq7pTo6BRpyP7sSd8QUlE46FZpnD0COu-PBHhNAlzYW737ACM5vytLllah7TXfN4WDz1U8IFyOQv8f9IY/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-neck-articulation.JPG" target="_blank">slightly unhinged</a> to further enhance the already-excellent articulation. The oh-so-moody "chin down, eyes up" pose above just barely scratches the surface.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoWiWL4hutHHrCY0o-90QxdNOqAwLJTPfzlHocyg_I8GuM8QYhut2yRedzNzdaxRIb1F0FZIVVUu2tCvCHktAjCwgUC5vVYLPVtsfKpA6BXYYrJVN6eseUdmo_RlPHZCVMlbm_5_Epcog/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-flight.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoWiWL4hutHHrCY0o-90QxdNOqAwLJTPfzlHocyg_I8GuM8QYhut2yRedzNzdaxRIb1F0FZIVVUu2tCvCHktAjCwgUC5vVYLPVtsfKpA6BXYYrJVN6eseUdmo_RlPHZCVMlbm_5_Epcog/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-flight.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Whoosh.</i></center>
<p>
I mean, damn! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003F256QI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B003F256QI&link_code=as3&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=3AKHSH45NZIO24CD" target="_blank">Figure stand</a> aside, this makes me feel downright <i>triumphant</i>.
<p>
Side note: I know some would argue that Silverbolt shouldn't be able to fly in robot mode, but I'm here to tell you he totally can. <i>And he hates it</i>.
<p>
Either way, that pretty much does it for the fine-ass robot mode. It's time to transform!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhrfD1wt7baPFKOr2dGDvANdVErTP85UzcoSWCiQ9kSJXmpMJX6IQ7TbskEpmG6tq6NcuX_nfJmMGz6Oks7Nbfh1PtFlGk8epcZYyNUyWPZgv9atgVvgreiMYRtzrQmxkK-dnI2PQVA6k/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-gerwalk-mode.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhrfD1wt7baPFKOr2dGDvANdVErTP85UzcoSWCiQ9kSJXmpMJX6IQ7TbskEpmG6tq6NcuX_nfJmMGz6Oks7Nbfh1PtFlGk8epcZYyNUyWPZgv9atgVvgreiMYRtzrQmxkK-dnI2PQVA6k/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-gerwalk-mode.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Someone pass the ibuprofen.</i></center>
<p>
But first, I couldn't help myself from trying out a gerwalk mode halfway through the jet conversion. It's not exactly stable, but the option is there if you're into this sort of thing. For now, let's just move on.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkykoPjfY7ZslDxXoN5W7qPIUsExPIn_hM4UaGGTwtsAqxMH_lBfmcEREv7oDugdtgTV4DUqKN9f5gRSHIp5b-_73r8bFUfzRB3C8EiJvUnkiu6TnJV9bFWrloCZ3rL8TlJTOI5q-BKY/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-jet-attack-mode.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkykoPjfY7ZslDxXoN5W7qPIUsExPIn_hM4UaGGTwtsAqxMH_lBfmcEREv7oDugdtgTV4DUqKN9f5gRSHIp5b-_73r8bFUfzRB3C8EiJvUnkiu6TnJV9bFWrloCZ3rL8TlJTOI5q-BKY/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-jet-attack-mode.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>You ever been shot in the face from 60,000 feet in the air?</i></center>
<p>
Boom! There's no better way to introduce the vehicle than showing off the patented "attack mode." This is an adorably friendly affair made for showering Decepticons with pure, unbridled pain. Outside of that beautiful fantasy, I really just prefer this for its convenience. Why risk losing track of important pieces as they're set aside?
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiILE8yGnHYhhsfCQrd-t1l5denX9hv6uCO8g7qBkcGdx10SNVXqv88rCIC8ATyREyCwZby83d1Rqiky2EjZpvMwmK8TBLQEV3Yn4Uhp0EYdN05wTiEbOCsbWg7Limkw7JVjPk0F4TE_u0/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-jet-back.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiILE8yGnHYhhsfCQrd-t1l5denX9hv6uCO8g7qBkcGdx10SNVXqv88rCIC8ATyREyCwZby83d1Rqiky2EjZpvMwmK8TBLQEV3Yn4Uhp0EYdN05wTiEbOCsbWg7Limkw7JVjPk0F4TE_u0/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-jet-back.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Ooh, that jet booty though.</i></center>
<p>
Of course, you might still prefer the "cleaner" sans-weaponry look if your home is somehow free of mystic portals wherein action figure accessories are lost for all eternity. Either way, the trademark <i>boxy Transformer jet undercarriage</i> is in full effect.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFVfis5G0oRf1_u0mbZ2fobsd_jp2Me_zsi3d3flJebvPLZgurxXg4gQsHcoUJhfWidWhxgQ5GgriJJ4espJ6nAyCh064D0SELYJirSSmLB-H5yiUVRqPV4AWPyZ-JztIPGe5ReNVSR_g/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-jet-bottom.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFVfis5G0oRf1_u0mbZ2fobsd_jp2Me_zsi3d3flJebvPLZgurxXg4gQsHcoUJhfWidWhxgQ5GgriJJ4espJ6nAyCh064D0SELYJirSSmLB-H5yiUVRqPV4AWPyZ-JztIPGe5ReNVSR_g/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-jet-bottom.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Those advanced Yoga classes can be pretty brutal.</i></center>
<p>
There's no way around it; this is often a point of contention for collectors. Personally, I've never been bothered by a little extra junk down there. I don't mind it on Transformer toys, either. (See what I did there? See what I did?!)
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRw10oRhSRDEAS82YsTe7q1Rb45j1peFnCFdwcj8-PISFjZXVz1-6xif1fGnCBAlgitVf0dfGkz22EF0SL2RVCohmN1CKE7OW6UNsNXqDk7hKFBvU1bpJbLKwdaxDFP9Voz8l8LtzIl6c/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-jet-profile.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRw10oRhSRDEAS82YsTe7q1Rb45j1peFnCFdwcj8-PISFjZXVz1-6xif1fGnCBAlgitVf0dfGkz22EF0SL2RVCohmN1CKE7OW6UNsNXqDk7hKFBvU1bpJbLKwdaxDFP9Voz8l8LtzIl6c/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-jet-profile.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>I think this super-thrilling profile shot speaks for itself.</i></center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8SxPT9Nkxe_tb3cFib53qYoxiRYki4VQw0jHj9X8XIJkmDlvS7soPoHNeu4Pr0mo_gpq2Nes3qSF0TVnTuvdmPGnHCmy8k5obYR2CIz1MUdDOMTnTly7EYYZApMmsOVI-7MN05PEPYi8/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-jet-top.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8SxPT9Nkxe_tb3cFib53qYoxiRYki4VQw0jHj9X8XIJkmDlvS7soPoHNeu4Pr0mo_gpq2Nes3qSF0TVnTuvdmPGnHCmy8k5obYR2CIz1MUdDOMTnTly7EYYZApMmsOVI-7MN05PEPYi8/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-jet-top.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Attack mode B-Eleventeen. He'd probably only be able to fly in circles.</i></center>
<p>
In the end, Silverbolt's jet mode is one that does what it needs to do with little fanfare. It's not going to knock off any socks, but it offers a reasonable bit of extra play and converting it back and forth is damn-near effortless. You can even enjoy seconds upon seconds of additional fun with a somewhat-authentic droop-nose feature! Color me satisfied.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrIJW7L6lkxW2QsIKx4OV_9t7TZ1wwW75t-WTSv2mrbBBGFS6Vgbgpalu_UJXrNi_BxHcw_WLfhjND7f2EW-X_O0lV1Ee07PeQg2y7tinRvLEODTwGUFmvNHTW6ZFgk54UWIHToCDcnUU/s1600/combiner-wars-superion-artwork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrIJW7L6lkxW2QsIKx4OV_9t7TZ1wwW75t-WTSv2mrbBBGFS6Vgbgpalu_UJXrNi_BxHcw_WLfhjND7f2EW-X_O0lV1Ee07PeQg2y7tinRvLEODTwGUFmvNHTW6ZFgk54UWIHToCDcnUU/s1600/combiner-wars-superion-artwork.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Hmm. I could swear there was at least one more thing to cover.</i></center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhusi0BosKOFqrZb3Bp709UAuvWI8omXdvLQmPDt9M4SYxGflYr1TGoYoOjiTdQx4e7iF1O-GEmbukTtnvcrjG9Hxb2Jmy4948yTGungHBaNgIIUH5YETZdYVDXyoteYAbXuRZNjHRDtd4/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-box-back-bio.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhusi0BosKOFqrZb3Bp709UAuvWI8omXdvLQmPDt9M4SYxGflYr1TGoYoOjiTdQx4e7iF1O-GEmbukTtnvcrjG9Hxb2Jmy4948yTGungHBaNgIIUH5YETZdYVDXyoteYAbXuRZNjHRDtd4/s1600/silverbolt-combiner-wars-transformers-box-back-bio.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Damn, I look good.</i></center>
<p>
We'll get to all of that combining business soon enough, but for now I'd like to remark on how fantastic of a stand-alone toy Combiner Wars Silverbolt is. The sporty aesthetic of the robot mode spruces up the already-gorgeous G1 design with just the right amount of renewed vigor. There's also plenty of fun to be had thanks to the versatile accessories and well-balanced articulation. Any faults (i.e. cumbersome fist-hinges and a static waist) are easily forgiven. In short? <i>I'm a fan</i>.
<p>
While <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2015/08/combiner-wars-optimus-review.html" target="_blank">Optimus</a> made for a pleasant surprise, there's no denying that Silverbolt is a true gem.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/aff-home.asp?id=CA-108078943" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRuJZpDbvapGAv0CjKwH-_JvGvVm36Bvun-mPvQ2Jjkv2KJJ_P-R55lC6BPvRTNjVV-AV9ZKlGgalafhf3Ssq_u1Vgizu5mrINdUNHMZCaIK0xEjP7tXT4sOjX3eB-1i0Gwyr3EY5tUQ4/s1600/EE_logo_black.png" /></a></div>
<p>
Once again, I'd like to give thanks to <a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/aff-home.asp?id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Entertainment Earth</a> for giving me the chance to review this guy. If your local stores are light on stock, their handy "Great Deals & Not Mint" section currently features <a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=NMHSBB1173&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Silverbolt for a 15 percent discount</a>. You should definitely check him out if you've been on the fence!
<p>
<i>More reviews are sure to follow! Keep an eye out for 'em via the CGS <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a> profiles!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-51694739729246133292015-08-10T11:36:00.000-04:002015-08-18T14:19:46.629-04:00Transformers Combiner Wars Optimus Prime Toy Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzBDc8AMVTi6koQ4970-JSxst3chR97BsJdsOghRSSigDp0HjWK3-XA1O1t38u-Y8ThFL8lQw2Huon0h4eSpq2G_kOWIPddi3gkAVa2mMABBVP4Ed_b7UcQ5Xl68qgxfb-_blPqN7KsY/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-closeup.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzBDc8AMVTi6koQ4970-JSxst3chR97BsJdsOghRSSigDp0HjWK3-XA1O1t38u-Y8ThFL8lQw2Huon0h4eSpq2G_kOWIPddi3gkAVa2mMABBVP4Ed_b7UcQ5Xl68qgxfb-_blPqN7KsY/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-closeup.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>That's just Prime!</i></center>
<p>
It turns out there are <i>three</i> sure things: death, taxes, and a constant stream of new <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2014/04/10-best-optimus-prime-toys.html" target="_blank">Optimus Prime toys</a>. One of the latest from Hasbro has the iconic Autobot leader shoehorned into 2015's Combiner Wars assortment. Thanks to the fine folks at <a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/aff-home.asp?id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Entertainment Earth</a>, I'm pleased to crack one open and see how it stacks up. Cue the pictures!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVMW78EllSYE0k4BvSOyBhXo7lNpBy0qATsI973e8pf9TPQyyzgTYGynp8l_wHDbnP9SuhWrcMsSyVWUUlGa_5EUuMGQBUti_ksgabq9gfOiBbStjPpHSKzWSS2Q_07nC4GaJle6vnhs/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-front.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVMW78EllSYE0k4BvSOyBhXo7lNpBy0qATsI973e8pf9TPQyyzgTYGynp8l_wHDbnP9SuhWrcMsSyVWUUlGa_5EUuMGQBUti_ksgabq9gfOiBbStjPpHSKzWSS2Q_07nC4GaJle6vnhs/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-front.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Why hello there.</i></center>
<p><a name='more'></a>
<a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HSB0975A11&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Combiner Wars Optimus</a> is obviously meant to tap right into the deepest of our nostalgic veins. The design leans heavily on the old-school G1 aesthetic with a generous helping of bulk to keep it fresh. (Seriously, this dude is about as broad-shouldered as they come.) The overall proportions are slightly hampered by the length of the arms, but it's not as big of a detractor as I expected.
<p>
While it's certainly a blast to have the big man stand about all sassy-like, there's still so much left to explore! An entire world of action figure posin' adventures await, and all you'll need to take part are two big ol' guns.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFwQ0vPaFMz9aKsIlVTnz9TDLOWLbVM6hYYrgHRarB1VLCidbYkzcpes8O9Cg_gVYtB4dEwgwoge_bmuC-zh2obhMm3kPLcqotgbq2Y3Dw2bdP9FWGSFsGky0kC5dLy2jN9f_vejQNwu4/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-guns-drawn.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFwQ0vPaFMz9aKsIlVTnz9TDLOWLbVM6hYYrgHRarB1VLCidbYkzcpes8O9Cg_gVYtB4dEwgwoge_bmuC-zh2obhMm3kPLcqotgbq2Y3Dw2bdP9FWGSFsGky0kC5dLy2jN9f_vejQNwu4/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-guns-drawn.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Those clay pigeons are in for a goddamn reckoning.</i></center>
<p>
The iconic ion blaster is in full effect alongside a long-barreled little number I've decided to name Stephen. <i>Don't ask</i>. Paired with the personally unanticipated amount of articulation littering Prime's hulking bod, the door is open to a wealth of battle-ready configurations. Gaze upon them!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTwPzTWXczfzxEHiD8yqE41LGwLcFKRKPdBgWeeC8HcLGF8mZ9VzOmWhewdE5ef-eESDUIJ_H7w7TK0qrsT24YbJyo6PcidIjq1l7_BTe1v93iQchYhSweNjF7koSaEGLlXGGySR7tKE8/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-g1-gun.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTwPzTWXczfzxEHiD8yqE41LGwLcFKRKPdBgWeeC8HcLGF8mZ9VzOmWhewdE5ef-eESDUIJ_H7w7TK0qrsT24YbJyo6PcidIjq1l7_BTe1v93iQchYhSweNjF7koSaEGLlXGGySR7tKE8/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-g1-gun.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT6STVruwUUAxxg1bqoWuztsNXOWzN1271Iv8oBhL6PUiD8DjOyVKkPkDhF-BZ9WzfHZd2awsekU733FF2JMT14Me7BeYz7vJySPzZKJyli8sHgBNUuRwSbox84T-1WFxx64aXjOX_R0Y/s1600/optimus_prime_g1_marvel_cover_box.jpg" target="_blank">I'm pretty sure I've seen this before.</a></i></center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQJj-MLwWroGyweYEtUqpp_R_BiQ2NA_OPTLMJQVfHJGWG1rx41Ok3O9hwjcdwnz4Q1Zm0ONrvjUWhrAnFIwbbhkYDErmF9fYeX7mcnFDhxrxhQmeBW1V71cr9Zv-5NEfLzcKLOcw3FWY/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-battle-ready.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQJj-MLwWroGyweYEtUqpp_R_BiQ2NA_OPTLMJQVfHJGWG1rx41Ok3O9hwjcdwnz4Q1Zm0ONrvjUWhrAnFIwbbhkYDErmF9fYeX7mcnFDhxrxhQmeBW1V71cr9Zv-5NEfLzcKLOcw3FWY/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-battle-ready.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Ah, yes. The patented "lunge shot."</i></center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWnm3kFq0xaQv0U3wA80BGKAYVA8dkFML2L5kzQu7b1W3QUMmCdJV6a5wnmZLgmhIf8Y9k7oXOfiXwZGnPGOlvgug4QeojZ6Y9lqPVuxTTDXhO52f9SRhnPzY6Eo1gSACLHgV1nlKMRSc/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-crouching.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWnm3kFq0xaQv0U3wA80BGKAYVA8dkFML2L5kzQu7b1W3QUMmCdJV6a5wnmZLgmhIf8Y9k7oXOfiXwZGnPGOlvgug4QeojZ6Y9lqPVuxTTDXhO52f9SRhnPzY6Eo1gSACLHgV1nlKMRSc/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-crouching.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>John Woo would be proud.</i></center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9oZzszejBUPziLKqRSkdKDiTr_7faLIYJKs6snTvqAhpBE_HU_PO6OGaENB7LcSy_zJJhUg728aDal-pyTKtRqQwKW0ZUNxfL_VnDba2O7wN266YMt_opiVh6iSH6yQSshhx98rV2Ius/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-articulation.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9oZzszejBUPziLKqRSkdKDiTr_7faLIYJKs6snTvqAhpBE_HU_PO6OGaENB7LcSy_zJJhUg728aDal-pyTKtRqQwKW0ZUNxfL_VnDba2O7wN266YMt_opiVh6iSH6yQSshhx98rV2Ius/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-articulation.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Okay, now you're just showing off!</i></center>
<p>
For <i>some</i> crazy reason, you can even combine the armaments into a big bad sumbitch that would probably make even <i>Rob freakin' Liefeld</i> blush. Continue on at your own risk.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibBU9AQBjJID-msGDV8t4mMF3ZZd-cXqRDdeV1UfDHlwcVdSSWeZniEv-9iyoFqmw_W0RhaRO855cfWzRMl9skAr7do5MeKr6N-KGIafiHD_Ri4bjQlewEulavlQ8Bt72SwaVFu4zXDVQ/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-guns-combined.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibBU9AQBjJID-msGDV8t4mMF3ZZd-cXqRDdeV1UfDHlwcVdSSWeZniEv-9iyoFqmw_W0RhaRO855cfWzRMl9skAr7do5MeKr6N-KGIafiHD_Ri4bjQlewEulavlQ8Bt72SwaVFu4zXDVQ/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-guns-combined.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>When you absolutely, positively have to kill every Decepticon in the room...</i></center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvidJMC9FAZaIznAkKc0wGHMuWXpgQNiXS75yptHB68JBIe4pszcmeENHPHCWxji7LFV6TTsNrhw7xAZVkDp1vw0lIRfLTF1HtkNR_ftCcej2nAz14NHhsvkWU8zZTvDMQJeeZfWykdso/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-rifle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvidJMC9FAZaIznAkKc0wGHMuWXpgQNiXS75yptHB68JBIe4pszcmeENHPHCWxji7LFV6TTsNrhw7xAZVkDp1vw0lIRfLTF1HtkNR_ftCcej2nAz14NHhsvkWU8zZTvDMQJeeZfWykdso/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-rifle.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>...accept no substitutes.</i></center>
<p>
There's a bit of room to venture into "fan-mode" territory as well. Going slightly off-script is always one of my favorite parts of messing around with new Transformer toys. Here are a few quick examples:
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYmNd_Aq1QjAkBFFRPpC8vizql93VkjlTHPYH1awZg3D0Xp-TpJ74He80oytWMn6Ecb0JgDBmfdRbfnUV1koad6h8wPqZjrGi2h8CoaLv6Tj4976VPbOHqy4Kx-DdEZJ3Y0g6_2vJ82zk/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-gun-variation.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYmNd_Aq1QjAkBFFRPpC8vizql93VkjlTHPYH1awZg3D0Xp-TpJ74He80oytWMn6Ecb0JgDBmfdRbfnUV1koad6h8wPqZjrGi2h8CoaLv6Tj4976VPbOHqy4Kx-DdEZJ3Y0g6_2vJ82zk/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-gun-variation.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>My, how practical. Shout-out to <a href="http://www.rebelscum.com/POTF2momawnadon.asp" target="_blank">Momaw Nadon</a>!</i></center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNbMQpv2hsUb3Bzcbw_YBrSCyfmMHIyOrL37CAkqU_gkwkaU_-J5zO-OmU0nsq9QXQR2yQ2FNXtV1YR0ZsgvOZmjRyuInLCfC8LmZilO3ew9on8rKxe4FmLTioULSz97Gfp4BPyJxSHNs/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-shoulder-mounted-guns.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNbMQpv2hsUb3Bzcbw_YBrSCyfmMHIyOrL37CAkqU_gkwkaU_-J5zO-OmU0nsq9QXQR2yQ2FNXtV1YR0ZsgvOZmjRyuInLCfC8LmZilO3ew9on8rKxe4FmLTioULSz97Gfp4BPyJxSHNs/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-shoulder-mounted-guns.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Errbody loves shoulder-mounted guns. Regardless, tread carefully when trying this sort of thing.</i></center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigHTzWiZVLE5Xl_TOUNAxCnc4DSEexfA7tFe_dLH0juvLQpl70fjjm8vVnii0ccQX-Gl6K69znMqw_ornpCNeWoGX9TrYP2GuEoAnLY1XTJi6Zdeg-MtMtub8pISD-MByZY8FNidqXsMY/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-back-variants.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigHTzWiZVLE5Xl_TOUNAxCnc4DSEexfA7tFe_dLH0juvLQpl70fjjm8vVnii0ccQX-Gl6K69znMqw_ornpCNeWoGX9TrYP2GuEoAnLY1XTJi6Zdeg-MtMtub8pISD-MByZY8FNidqXsMY/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-back-variants.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>You can futz with Op's <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmXCxB10jfOxNe-nUqDIW5aQyWrmiQYFjvEI_BDgvlVlprfhIZLHZVojvbHH2bjYsr07E70oY8NRZX6BaBQ2tU3Lgv77qWvHsIULmhj0w5Hg_yIlboMhFzSyGO_5hPyBBQ6Vn6Rfud0UA/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-back.JPG" target="_blank">back</a> as well. It's pretty much the height of tantalization.</i></center>
<p>
With so many moving parts, you're bound to stumble across some interesting new arrangements. One guy even found a random <a href="http://www.tfw2005.com/boards/transformers-feedback/1012966-combiner-war-optimus-prime-40.html#post12568608" target="_blank">base mode</a>! Toys can be pretty fun. Who knew?
<p>
Oh, you're still here? Well, there might be a few more juicy tidbits to share. Let me think about that for a second.
<p>
Hold on. I'm still thinking.
<p>
Ah, I've got it! <i>Optimus can transform into a truck</i>! After a fold here and a dislocation there, you end up with something like this:
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6H31oCgvjeCssV4AvE4M3xv7CwW0wpv_8gwRei6xVoxLs836IWpiArbZpgz0wzqqCE0oYWenl5ml5c8PXALlWhI89JQuZjIg97HM3NDqmeP9vhm2pDPOvf-n9en1pOQUKxaju1cD0uCw/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-vehicle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6H31oCgvjeCssV4AvE4M3xv7CwW0wpv_8gwRei6xVoxLs836IWpiArbZpgz0wzqqCE0oYWenl5ml5c8PXALlWhI89JQuZjIg97HM3NDqmeP9vhm2pDPOvf-n9en1pOQUKxaju1cD0uCw/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-vehicle.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>BERSERKER!</i></center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiLcjzCtquioCE-cJ7v49OKsws0psLQhQrII4czBQR55tt1DnAMpFBisFCbbF9dYd-koxHIxM1YIsqsddGRAJ7ElDSO0hKbRXlOcp3vhoON-go3cw4TDNxGf721mAMDm2A_LGKmui5LNw/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-vehicle-back.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiLcjzCtquioCE-cJ7v49OKsws0psLQhQrII4czBQR55tt1DnAMpFBisFCbbF9dYd-koxHIxM1YIsqsddGRAJ7ElDSO0hKbRXlOcp3vhoON-go3cw4TDNxGf721mAMDm2A_LGKmui5LNw/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-vehicle-back.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>I seriously doubt this would pass inspection.</i></center>
<p>
It's a perfectly serviceable little vehicle, all things considered. It holds together nicely and the conversion is a breeze. I don't really care what type of cab the designers go with from release to release, but I guess it's nice to be able to add another to the "flat nose" column.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXcXQeFAIHHrDmIZghFMPeI1mkLz6__l3TKNmUbW4kLkPTyEn0qCJKwtwq1HJwE3uCY2VO2hjl3AkADEPw5LGRfBUlbVlKw6EOnATbZpwCS9Car8OqreNQMq9QbM25ruL0limVNTmH8rw/s1600/combiner-wars-optimus-maximus-artwork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXcXQeFAIHHrDmIZghFMPeI1mkLz6__l3TKNmUbW4kLkPTyEn0qCJKwtwq1HJwE3uCY2VO2hjl3AkADEPw5LGRfBUlbVlKw6EOnATbZpwCS9Car8OqreNQMq9QbM25ruL0limVNTmH8rw/s1600/combiner-wars-optimus-maximus-artwork.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>I know there's at least *one* more bullet to hit on this guy. What ever could it be?</i></center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9lGVFdnghZWwiOv_mQqbYnQnh2YL7E5XSC_LAD1zJwlB-EXwVdIpIdQ05zTwUdSWu9zLgJy2IGfKXLCBzyeFV0pRMDoGjKH1t8kmr_VLQd9CUe8Bsv9C6iKFIp8e9ba9PrZeCeR75k9c/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-official-picture-vs-product.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9lGVFdnghZWwiOv_mQqbYnQnh2YL7E5XSC_LAD1zJwlB-EXwVdIpIdQ05zTwUdSWu9zLgJy2IGfKXLCBzyeFV0pRMDoGjKH1t8kmr_VLQd9CUe8Bsv9C6iKFIp8e9ba9PrZeCeR75k9c/s1600/optimus-combiner-wars-transformers-official-picture-vs-product.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Mystic voodoo wherein little to no change makes all the difference.</i></center>
<p>
Y'know, I was pretty underwhelmed when I saw the first promo shot of this guy. He just seemed so friggin' <i>flat</i>. Surprisingly, the final product is quite an attractive robot warrior-man despite seemingly having gone unchanged. Thanks to differences in lighting, sweet selective Myspace angles, and the absence of funky digital edits, sometimes our beloved hunks of plastic look <i>way</i> better in-hand. In the end, I'm pleased to report that <a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HSB0975A11&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Combiner Wars Optimus Prime</a> turned out to be a worthy addition to the ever-growing pantheon of Autobot leader toys.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/aff-home.asp?id=CA-108078943" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRuJZpDbvapGAv0CjKwH-_JvGvVm36Bvun-mPvQ2Jjkv2KJJ_P-R55lC6BPvRTNjVV-AV9ZKlGgalafhf3Ssq_u1Vgizu5mrINdUNHMZCaIK0xEjP7tXT4sOjX3eB-1i0Gwyr3EY5tUQ4/s1600/EE_logo_black.png" /></a></div>
<p>
Thanks again to <a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/aff-home.asp?id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Entertainment Earth</a> for helping me give this fine piece of transformin' plastic a look. They're currently in the midst of a huge <a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/summerclearance0815.asp?id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">summer clearance sale</a> featuring plenty of want-inducing action figures and collectibles. If you happen to have some spare cash burning a hole in your pocket, you should definitely check it out!
<p>
<i>More reviews should be right around the corner! If you'd like, you can keep an eye out for 'em via the CGS <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a> profiles!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-25585794776856921062015-04-08T22:00:00.000-04:002015-04-11T22:06:24.315-04:00Weekly Want - Premium Format Darkseid, Super Robot Wars, & More!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXbjLsN8ylWVoKGIk_dwwB7a_X70QWCjMfxrFJcBWQHNhNslHmSUQdsWMEwrM9cLafofmFtUn_-wRxHITw_HlALTQMCtGJeyNi70ZqSP0ul04Fhoo1794A2hPd8WbDC03cPnBmrVt-a3g/s1600/premium-format-darkseid-sideshow-collectibles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXbjLsN8ylWVoKGIk_dwwB7a_X70QWCjMfxrFJcBWQHNhNslHmSUQdsWMEwrM9cLafofmFtUn_-wRxHITw_HlALTQMCtGJeyNi70ZqSP0ul04Fhoo1794A2hPd8WbDC03cPnBmrVt-a3g/s1600/premium-format-darkseid-sideshow-collectibles.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Darkseid is...expensive</i>.</center>
<p>
We may be in a bit of a pre-SDCC funk as far as huge reveals go, but "ooh" and "ah"-worthy product images are always trickling out here and there. The recurring theme of the week seemed to be official shots of previously-teased items, but there were still a few surprises in store. Now, on to my personal highlights!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf2XpRAVAi74MIDJ5rkmi-fMKqu_U3bZTFDMZm-Co5NrS7YYhbKUkVVIzg6vvn9CQH3Q7IMfzW3L8xfdcaRQ_KEOZ1p-1MMjBHqNhcZrCTfAZnTnKRbaN_5ay07qK68JpCqo5JleyQex8/s1600/avengers-marvel-legends-infinite-series-5-pack-disney-store-exclusive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf2XpRAVAi74MIDJ5rkmi-fMKqu_U3bZTFDMZm-Co5NrS7YYhbKUkVVIzg6vvn9CQH3Q7IMfzW3L8xfdcaRQ_KEOZ1p-1MMjBHqNhcZrCTfAZnTnKRbaN_5ay07qK68JpCqo5JleyQex8/s1600/avengers-marvel-legends-infinite-series-5-pack-disney-store-exclusive.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=marvel%20legends%20infinite%20series&linkCode=ur2&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Amarvel%20legends%20infinite%20series&tag=casgeesku-20&url=search-alias%3Daps&linkId=2VUTRKRUHPZLEO7C">Marvel Legends Infinite Series</a> Avengers 5-Pack (Price & Release Date TBD)</center>
<p>
These might be made from existing molds, but the vibrant decos have really won me over. It doesn't hurt that I'm a bit of a sucker for "gift set" releases in general. Unfortunately for many of us, this appears to be a European Disney Store exclusive.
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMGf2SOHhksGdaBq4zMNNXH6jG-XMnktZy_JDXzDiWkgpxGKS69uY7OGouuFM-Rjn4oVR4OQDW0F3q-bWrafOA7j2RQBNNyS6I5YEAwlsMjxJDmVw4b6GendAPvqLNzhmLYX077II6oBk/s1600/darkseid-premium-format-figure-sideshow-collectibles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMGf2SOHhksGdaBq4zMNNXH6jG-XMnktZy_JDXzDiWkgpxGKS69uY7OGouuFM-Rjn4oVR4OQDW0F3q-bWrafOA7j2RQBNNyS6I5YEAwlsMjxJDmVw4b6GendAPvqLNzhmLYX077II6oBk/s1600/darkseid-premium-format-figure-sideshow-collectibles.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://affiliates.sideshowtoy.com/Tracker.aspx?aid=2685&sku=300284&cid=-1" target="_blank">Sideshow Collectibles Premium Format Darkseid</a> ($599, Spring 2016)</center>
<p>
Okay, 600 bucks is a lot to just throw around, but Sideshow's badass Darkseid Premium Format figure almost makes me want to throw caution to the wind and just go for it. An exclusive version with an "angry" expression will also be available, but I much prefer the standard edition pictured above.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCWiTiYDXMz7kbXFiNVxBIc16w4c-EOR42OldaDWy4cZYvqq_noPJy8WUp7Ip35SGcPDXHFXSnuAzLI1cD968vKVz9j-SYV_VI8lonPV2h0jZDpQ33XlNAUf5amCjzRvbuQN-kMcMWCw/s1600/iron-anvil-gi-joe-joecon-2015-tiger-force-vs-iron-grenadiers-set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCWiTiYDXMz7kbXFiNVxBIc16w4c-EOR42OldaDWy4cZYvqq_noPJy8WUp7Ip35SGcPDXHFXSnuAzLI1cD968vKVz9j-SYV_VI8lonPV2h0jZDpQ33XlNAUf5amCjzRvbuQN-kMcMWCw/s1600/iron-anvil-gi-joe-joecon-2015-tiger-force-vs-iron-grenadiers-set.jpg" /></a></div>
<center>Iron Grenadiers Iron Anvil JoeCon Exclusive (Prices will vary, April 2015)</center>
<p>
This year's JoeCon <a href="http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=HAS24396&mode=retail" target="_blank">Tiger Force Vs. Iron Grenadiers Box Set</a> has several worthwhile offerings, but the Iron Anvil troop builder is easily my favorite. Anyone not attending the convention (which is held this coming weekend, April 9-12) will have to scour message boards or eBay for individual figures. As such, a specific price is hard to nail down right now.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_yBDey2U3svAKnYjZ1rHSxMDzZS4fyythrigVhCKhuEdp3oRHWCgZvR_WRM7Rr3MwXe4bHAsPHlGSMcSUeb54R3Y2aGH9qSaHyAEufdS3U01g0XBOtPG6B7czXpgx3umJLc7b08FS_50/s1600/Soulgain-Super-Robot-Wars-Original-Generation-SRD-S.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_yBDey2U3svAKnYjZ1rHSxMDzZS4fyythrigVhCKhuEdp3oRHWCgZvR_WRM7Rr3MwXe4bHAsPHlGSMcSUeb54R3Y2aGH9qSaHyAEufdS3U01g0XBOtPG6B7czXpgx3umJLc7b08FS_50/s1600/Soulgain-Super-Robot-Wars-Original-Generation-SRD-S.jpg" alt="Super Robot Wars S.R.D-S Soulgain"/></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.play-asia.com/super-robot-wars-original-generation-s-r-d-s-soulgain-paOS-13-49-en-70-8bx1.html?affiliate_id=1567665" target="_blank"><i>Super Robot Wars</i> Original Generation S.R.D-S Soulgain</a> ($47.99, Spring 2015)</center>
<p>
Man, <i>Super Robot Wars</i> is always filled to the brim with mecha-fueled eye candy. Even in a semi-SD form, the Soulgain looks fully capable of kicking many a butt.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDISBa67cU648nYwjBcVU_ZHcsXOSW6663GNaDK1hmYobdXCI2ZYlpPoNGeyid3xnyxdlP8Rd70YqTGBilzWslIiyW8UcdAvTgwRlRzR78GSztMRkbYGVVC0eKR5mHTJ795-B7-Djwd5s/s1600/the-flash-dc-super-powers-artfx-statue-kotobukiya.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDISBa67cU648nYwjBcVU_ZHcsXOSW6663GNaDK1hmYobdXCI2ZYlpPoNGeyid3xnyxdlP8Rd70YqTGBilzWslIiyW8UcdAvTgwRlRzR78GSztMRkbYGVVC0eKR5mHTJ795-B7-Djwd5s/s1600/the-flash-dc-super-powers-artfx-statue-kotobukiya.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=KTSV121&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Flash ArtFX+ Super Powers Statue</a> ($29.99, Dec. 2015)</center>
<p>
It'd be nice if they'd ditched the "joints" since this is a non-articulated statue, but it still grabs my interest given <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2014/03/the-nostalgia-bomb-of-mattels-2014-dc.html" target="_blank">my deep affinity for the 1980s Super Powers line</a>.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4D0YlZNRs3Q4u0KJeRUGdtx6Zm_kdIx03gIOvG7k0EqqqJAzyq0oWah3yK2JrbwsGDJmD2Q7D70p-LeWv-9HD7nY9J2qSn3f0xdvJWTHpmKr-ZsAKDIfC88NnDBLGYpSiDOxrTpD7wpg/s1600/transformers-masterpiece-perceptor-fans-toys-tesla.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4D0YlZNRs3Q4u0KJeRUGdtx6Zm_kdIx03gIOvG7k0EqqqJAzyq0oWah3yK2JrbwsGDJmD2Q7D70p-LeWv-9HD7nY9J2qSn3f0xdvJWTHpmKr-ZsAKDIfC88NnDBLGYpSiDOxrTpD7wpg/s1600/transformers-masterpiece-perceptor-fans-toys-tesla.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=FTS10010&mode=retail" target="_blank">Fans Toys Tesla</a> Masterpiece Perceptor ($119.99, Spring 2015)</center>
<p>
I'm a pretty big fan of the Autobot scientist Perceptor. He's a great character and the original toy was <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2014/06/generation-1-autobot-highlights.html" target="_blank">my favorite of the entire 1985 Transformers assortment</a>. If the official Masterpiece line never gets around to this guy, "Tesla" looks to be a worthy stand-in given its rad mix of IDW and G1 animation model design cues.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHxeZWCHslQSLT_bH3zD_NIKxfqn5EPaq9emk3JB61DkLoc7-7OtOn-y5Ptao30Ax3FfThArsI_t36lSHJgMxt2MlSoRxJ2qYi0CcuDoEhZKHjnLSsXPPtT1q9EcXAXzUmJFkkSG0woiU/s1600/truforce-mega-man-x-figure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHxeZWCHslQSLT_bH3zD_NIKxfqn5EPaq9emk3JB61DkLoc7-7OtOn-y5Ptao30Ax3FfThArsI_t36lSHJgMxt2MlSoRxJ2qYi0CcuDoEhZKHjnLSsXPPtT1q9EcXAXzUmJFkkSG0woiU/s1600/truforce-mega-man-x-figure.jpg" alt="TruForce Mega Man X"></a></div>
<center><a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/truforce/truforce-collectibles-mega-man-x-action-figure" target="_blank">TruForce Collectibles Mega Man X</a> ($79.99, Sept. 2015)</center>
<p>
<a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2015/01/truforce-mega-man-x-figure.html" target="_blank">The Truforce Mega Man X Kickstarter</a> was a success, and the final product is looking every bit as fantastic as I'd hoped.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5A5QDbO73zKnd6twym3dQI2OqmkOh8RlIBTuYWp6dqik43P-jMr37l5vxXy41dYbEYXZckK6PS0-kHv3TN_hWCLm-4bLJ70FnPgPMFQRz7K6fTWyTJZSlL_jaEOOwfkVMz2M2Nkxltic/s1600/Venom-Snake-Splitter-Metal-Gear-Solid-V-Play-Arts-Kai-MGSV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5A5QDbO73zKnd6twym3dQI2OqmkOh8RlIBTuYWp6dqik43P-jMr37l5vxXy41dYbEYXZckK6PS0-kHv3TN_hWCLm-4bLJ70FnPgPMFQRz7K6fTWyTJZSlL_jaEOOwfkVMz2M2Nkxltic/s1600/Venom-Snake-Splitter-Metal-Gear-Solid-V-Play-Arts-Kai-MGSV.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=SQ81491&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Play Arts Kai <i>Metal Gear Solid V</i> Venom Snake</a> ($99.99, Jul. 2015)</center>
<p>
The Play Arts Kai line is no stranger to <i>Metal Gear Solid</i>, and we tend to get some awesome looking figures whenever they meet. <i>MGSV</i> Venom Snake will be available in two varieties: Splitter (seen above) and the Amazon Japan exclusive Gold Tiger.
<p>
This wasn't the most exciting week ever, but I'd still be more than happy to own any of the products listed above. If you have a problem with that, meet me at the 7-Eleven and we'll fight it out. <b>I mean it</b>.
<p>
<i>For more Castle Geek-Skull updates, follow along on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-4092444625255433682015-03-25T07:32:00.001-04:002015-03-26T02:02:11.100-04:00Weekly Want - Transformers Combiner Wars, Play Arts Batman, Etc.!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFfbntfwHHIKzxv10HqrJhWBGlJK7A6yZxsJEPVsJ2XNiwfstFHHOtSIkuUXDdf_uYLnr2IPZy40Wb16rE7qhwfY-CsLaD8UQkLYUi56_FT9PFZJO0LED2xncAwOGwLL7qrAYObou54Uw/s1600/transformers-combiners-wars-brake-neck-wildrider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFfbntfwHHIKzxv10HqrJhWBGlJK7A6yZxsJEPVsJ2XNiwfstFHHOtSIkuUXDdf_uYLnr2IPZy40Wb16rE7qhwfY-CsLaD8UQkLYUi56_FT9PFZJO0LED2xncAwOGwLL7qrAYObou54Uw/s1600/transformers-combiners-wars-brake-neck-wildrider.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>So wild. So rider.</i></center>
<p>
Cue the dramatic smoke-bombs and confetti; the <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/search/label/weekly%20want" target="_blank">Weekly Want</a> has returned! You know what that means. That's right, I'm going to assume you're willing to scroll through a bunch of pictures. So, do that! <i>I'll wait</i>.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjev-5_MkLY3KVeluDNlSRH5eh44NqlrMCiWdBgTIHlNUL0UTQdhnA29f0SZzxVUYp7Beo2WgrSohiDzf30k-af_03oAgyRxjLyf44TpzITYAl2a4JRDQlKnOhxRkcfxIOhB9hB9LcJ-zQ/s1600/revoltech-star-wars-boba-fett.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjev-5_MkLY3KVeluDNlSRH5eh44NqlrMCiWdBgTIHlNUL0UTQdhnA29f0SZzxVUYp7Beo2WgrSohiDzf30k-af_03oAgyRxjLyf44TpzITYAl2a4JRDQlKnOhxRkcfxIOhB9hB9LcJ-zQ/s1600/revoltech-star-wars-boba-fett.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.play-asia.com/star-wars-revo-no-005-boba-fett-paOS-13-49-en-70-8p0d.html?affiliate_id=1567665" target="_blank">Star Wars Revoltech 005 Boba Fett</a> ($53.99, May 2015)</center>
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjALfz6styQ6PGc-v0SL0zBdHoembk19L5XX0QfHwWb7PsKwnmHdNEEfXM3jgGd1hLmU9ANC9ZRTc0eUvPOr9tDGyGD_zvBs1JkASs7R7MMbpnVXykhr5z2QWGX0NtPfHnBuODFoB1VpOo/s1600/arkham-knight-batman-play-arts-kai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjALfz6styQ6PGc-v0SL0zBdHoembk19L5XX0QfHwWb7PsKwnmHdNEEfXM3jgGd1hLmU9ANC9ZRTc0eUvPOr9tDGyGD_zvBs1JkASs7R7MMbpnVXykhr5z2QWGX0NtPfHnBuODFoB1VpOo/s1600/arkham-knight-batman-play-arts-kai.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=SQ81577&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Play Arts Kai <i>Arkham Knight</i> Batman</a> ($99.99, July 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqf4Fr3ast2lXJ7nxq5BHbQ-oU9_PlmUNDPE0ebQMotqqJSBMbA8Yy_oz16DTQjvyQZmkeBVCBWewGs7Mn157ifIzXLYq95MQ9_kRsPG2PT9Pf-jsX4Mj9D-G2YocA28Cp-ZqXNbXv7ZI/s1600/iron-man-mark-43-kotobukiya-artfx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqf4Fr3ast2lXJ7nxq5BHbQ-oU9_PlmUNDPE0ebQMotqqJSBMbA8Yy_oz16DTQjvyQZmkeBVCBWewGs7Mn157ifIzXLYq95MQ9_kRsPG2PT9Pf-jsX4Mj9D-G2YocA28Cp-ZqXNbXv7ZI/s1600/iron-man-mark-43-kotobukiya-artfx.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://marvel.com/news/toys/24303/suit_up_with_the_avengers_age_of_ultron_iron_man_mark_43_statue_from_kotobukiya" target="_blank">Kotobukiya ArtFX <i>Avengers: Age of Ultron</i> Iron Man Mark 43</a> (Price & Release Date TBD)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiodJ4e7At9E3SEqCT-K8AHmZRxSNaMaJYc4C8j1cEHppjSppLNyAzzu9C0qY3CSh1L-mtBPu0nuGWU6hiYfcO4PANUVg8nPsUa1atRIGmkrEnDFBQ_dkH81SbBWWrNmeWQw16nLtbhiw/s1600/jumbo-wolverine-secret-wars-gentle-giant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiodJ4e7At9E3SEqCT-K8AHmZRxSNaMaJYc4C8j1cEHppjSppLNyAzzu9C0qY3CSh1L-mtBPu0nuGWU6hiYfcO4PANUVg8nPsUa1atRIGmkrEnDFBQ_dkH81SbBWWrNmeWQw16nLtbhiw/s1600/jumbo-wolverine-secret-wars-gentle-giant.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=GE80476&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Gentle Giant Jumbo Secret Wars Wolverine</a> ($119.99, Mar. 2016)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz1xoubDbImmvyOIY7ISDeyctl9mHLnyH5cfndQ1eRiB96XJWvzduHdipwE64fSECVPpwMXPnhzr1Gvgw4Sbhv5YoGa6jRQVSUjMwWoCDmHwr4ECCvCMONZRwL6OFidG1eBOqeEMFPa6s/s1600/medicom-daft-punk-random-access-memories-real-action-heroes-figures.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz1xoubDbImmvyOIY7ISDeyctl9mHLnyH5cfndQ1eRiB96XJWvzduHdipwE64fSECVPpwMXPnhzr1Gvgw4Sbhv5YoGa6jRQVSUjMwWoCDmHwr4ECCvCMONZRwL6OFidG1eBOqeEMFPa6s/s1600/medicom-daft-punk-random-access-memories-real-action-heroes-figures.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00L9XNEYQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00L9XNEYQ&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=YYFUFTGCSXJA6QAU" target="_blank">Medicom <i>Random Access Memories</i> Daft Punk Real Action Heroes</a> ($249.99 each, Jun. 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxT4sgpQKzcqtiF9-enhvx4pNdHV9HWmWjfLfuaQvd3W7WQgTdDV5owp9MJ0ZVKh7pbD36SLYVAbKlZV9U5kmjA45GfkHxn-rWfuLFsfRK5nY_5-qdXV4WAPdRY7nSEAl8y-fVFU6AQqA/s1600/Muv-Luv-Alternative-Total-Eclipse-F-22A-Rapter-Alfred-Walken-model.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxT4sgpQKzcqtiF9-enhvx4pNdHV9HWmWjfLfuaQvd3W7WQgTdDV5owp9MJ0ZVKh7pbD36SLYVAbKlZV9U5kmjA45GfkHxn-rWfuLFsfRK5nY_5-qdXV4WAPdRY7nSEAl8y-fVFU6AQqA/s1600/Muv-Luv-Alternative-Total-Eclipse-F-22A-Rapter-Alfred-Walken-model.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.play-asia.com/muv-luv-alternative-total-eclipse-f-22a-rapter-alfred-walken-paOS-13-49-en-70-8cv9.html?affiliate_id=1567665" target="_blank"><i>Muv-Luv Alternative: Total Eclipse</i> F-22A Raptor</a> ($57.99, Mar. 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGAOGkN9dwkcF8Dx0zr8aIilHH97JUIsaQ3lWT2m4j2pfTKn2oipa6ayMEVQ049s1ot5ji2zhJ_uYUG6nAnevvZW3pCm6Fbo9BPHznqcl8NL2w2bkEyykOhNKddkUFbWhQibnGdtG3Fg/s1600/sh-figuarts-kamen-rider-x-cruiser-two-pack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGAOGkN9dwkcF8Dx0zr8aIilHH97JUIsaQ3lWT2m4j2pfTKn2oipa6ayMEVQ049s1ot5ji2zhJ_uYUG6nAnevvZW3pCm6Fbo9BPHznqcl8NL2w2bkEyykOhNKddkUFbWhQibnGdtG3Fg/s1600/sh-figuarts-kamen-rider-x-cruiser-two-pack.jpg" /></a></div>
<center>Tamashii Web Exclusive <a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&fst=as%3Aoff&keywords=sh%20figuarts%20kamen%20rider&linkCode=ur2&qid=1427345348&rh=n%3A2514571011%2Ck%3Ash%20figuarts%20kamen%20rider&rnid=2941120011&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=NTLLUJYAZWLNGQ3E">S.H. Figuarts</a> Kamen Rider X Cruiser Two-Pack (8316 yen, Aug. 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCi_qMpRmJ4S3m7-pUt5qhMWEkfSNaOOpzpS5q7-nEsRMrhE-zljktATUexTpGRi7KfTm5eY1wTSBh9pR1Af07PfamwkurzCuLBzk7bbaqwDqBDdBy10-rbLa9yKHGJ4qgYAoWzL_BsXI/s1600/transformers-adventures-nemesis-prime.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCi_qMpRmJ4S3m7-pUt5qhMWEkfSNaOOpzpS5q7-nEsRMrhE-zljktATUexTpGRi7KfTm5eY1wTSBh9pR1Af07PfamwkurzCuLBzk7bbaqwDqBDdBy10-rbLa9yKHGJ4qgYAoWzL_BsXI/s1600/transformers-adventures-nemesis-prime.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B00V2040OO" target="_blank"><i>Transformers: Adventure</i> Nemesis Prime</a> (4,700 yen, Apr. 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsqWtVJLNHml7eTubT4woWLvfd4Ww3a4eLlJRqo2Jd_BLPb2Zjw3AJs946z99-xat1XQoMORj7cPE079rLnNqnnwHPZooYwa3dri6YqH777TzTj9f8ckyAIgGh__SCheQ2JneJdOqqYyA/s1600/transformers-generations-combiner-wars-brake-neck-wildrider-robot-mode.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsqWtVJLNHml7eTubT4woWLvfd4Ww3a4eLlJRqo2Jd_BLPb2Zjw3AJs946z99-xat1XQoMORj7cPE079rLnNqnnwHPZooYwa3dri6YqH777TzTj9f8ckyAIgGh__SCheQ2JneJdOqqYyA/s1600/transformers-generations-combiner-wars-brake-neck-wildrider-robot-mode.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="https://www.facebook.com/transformers/photos/a.153259298077606.36631.146805978722938/807897432613786/?type=1" target="_blank">Transformers Combiner Wars Brake-Neck</a> ($16.99, May 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbRGdoohJgZdaKScu3ZDaDVGqRf1B8GO7bME8eoMofdTAm-WNk6syIE8neJFzWieypM8RhFXfXCPPI2oW3erxeXgMgIqIrOZ4IvhOH2IJ8duxEG1fR-t0wwFVJ_iDPjqkic3HNq2N9Jjg/s1600/transformers-generations-combiner-wars-quickslinger-slingshot-robot-mode.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbRGdoohJgZdaKScu3ZDaDVGqRf1B8GO7bME8eoMofdTAm-WNk6syIE8neJFzWieypM8RhFXfXCPPI2oW3erxeXgMgIqIrOZ4IvhOH2IJ8duxEG1fR-t0wwFVJ_iDPjqkic3HNq2N9Jjg/s1600/transformers-generations-combiner-wars-quickslinger-slingshot-robot-mode.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="https://www.facebook.com/transformers/photos/a.153259298077606.36631.146805978722938/807897432613786/?type=1" target="_blank">Transformers Combiner Wars Quickslinger</a> ($16.99, May 2015)</center>
<p>
Transformer collectors everywhere are rejoicing over the official confirmation of Hasbro-released Combiner Wars Slingshot and Wildrider toys. Meanwhile, companies like Kaiyodo and Medicom have done their best to make me consider selling organs on the black market. The Weekly Want is wrecking my wallet!
<p>
<i>Be sure to watch for more Castle Geek-Skull updates on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-80598687428323849752015-03-18T22:55:00.000-04:002015-03-26T00:10:33.781-04:00Weekly Want - Marvel NOW! ARTFX, MOTU Classics, & More!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIRVcLt0OPHjYFSrqp5fQF-B2hq4cECntn4I9_E-U1qX-_kg5d2P3oD5-Te2dNYLF8HwKpUYzGlhQr09mVTLpA4RW9HZjX9qSOoZkCRFUQNGXQuFBh2HhZA_bHstDnm8XS6AHQJ8w4pfU/s1600/cyclops-artfx-statue-marvel-now.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIRVcLt0OPHjYFSrqp5fQF-B2hq4cECntn4I9_E-U1qX-_kg5d2P3oD5-Te2dNYLF8HwKpUYzGlhQr09mVTLpA4RW9HZjX9qSOoZkCRFUQNGXQuFBh2HhZA_bHstDnm8XS6AHQJ8w4pfU/s1600/cyclops-artfx-statue-marvel-now.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Racer Slim</i></center>
<p>
Yeah, I know the question that's been on all of your minds. "When is it <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/search/label/weekly%20want" target="_blank">Weekly Want</a> time again?!" Wait no longer, delectable denizens of Geek-Skull; the latest batch of action figure and collectible images is at hand!
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg26fxeWmawGVOoJvdR06cdl0qxu4MmHr17sb9u-McgHlOuOOkNkPUSkdE2q2Y4FWOB6mUavhSdTY7bZfIuhkH3I8XQh10mJCSxB1RCzfTJc81RpZxi65M6kMKoZYln2Zy9lNQdreASny0/s1600/queen-grayskull-club-200x-he-man-masters-of-the-universe-classics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg26fxeWmawGVOoJvdR06cdl0qxu4MmHr17sb9u-McgHlOuOOkNkPUSkdE2q2Y4FWOB6mUavhSdTY7bZfIuhkH3I8XQh10mJCSxB1RCzfTJc81RpZxi65M6kMKoZYln2Zy9lNQdreASny0/s1600/queen-grayskull-club-200x-he-man-masters-of-the-universe-classics.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.clubs.mattycollector.com/store/mattycol/en_US/pd/ThemeID.29372800/productID.314741500#.VRN0nOFH6wx" target="_blank">Masters of the Universe Classics 200X Queen Grayskull</a> ($26, Nov. 15th, 2015)</center>
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdc5n-yaE1S4DFPzI-biXbcPX29gJYf6N6a5LaLy0La2owiL8OJltVnjpc0hTFxVwgZhtPhv7YJhOc_6zMi1_qlf6RjPmk1hyHgxj726QuMZc-evgmnVWepeqT8780Pz3kmCLJEsrruxk/s1600/cyclops-marvel-now-kotobukiya-artfx-statue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdc5n-yaE1S4DFPzI-biXbcPX29gJYf6N6a5LaLy0La2owiL8OJltVnjpc0hTFxVwgZhtPhv7YJhOc_6zMi1_qlf6RjPmk1hyHgxj726QuMZc-evgmnVWepeqT8780Pz3kmCLJEsrruxk/s1600/cyclops-marvel-now-kotobukiya-artfx-statue.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&fst=as%3Aoff&keywords=kotobukiya%20artfx&linkCode=ur2&qid=1427339350&rh=n%3A2514596011%2Ck%3Akotobukiya%20artfx&rnid=2941120011&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=D4AJPZB3M4ZL2Z6D" target="_blank">Kotobukiya ArtFX</a> Marvel NOW! Cyclops Statue (Price TBD, Summer 2015)</center>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI9xzdlVYQhRJ9OWOZeaWmxbFy1sdaU5nXRatOobval5axkdnVebEdKKTdJaRpSLSM3Lv9ceG2InIFWdSnqkDQ_iW3C7qwOQFpQlTPE0zWKqKuvpvSIksPMTMZRfkxiAa2qteyEkeqDKc/s1600/funko-reaction-gremlins-stripe-gangster-3d-cinema.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI9xzdlVYQhRJ9OWOZeaWmxbFy1sdaU5nXRatOobval5axkdnVebEdKKTdJaRpSLSM3Lv9ceG2InIFWdSnqkDQ_iW3C7qwOQFpQlTPE0zWKqKuvpvSIksPMTMZRfkxiAa2qteyEkeqDKc/s1600/funko-reaction-gremlins-stripe-gangster-3d-cinema.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=FU5510&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Gremlins ReAction figures</a> ($9.99 each, Jun. 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqTSeraRegjoTvUlgXaluLWLNZUhEq-9g-aJHarQYnjX0Ho8NaHMgvfs4-RAiBMhW-dkmCK93qCgUDY5Dm3zhe_4XGDIHbSaXJpzbOx6Re_RY0ve6KZltGuV8Sqoq2JVIag1Fmw0gZdBo/s1600/gi-joe-snake-eyes-gentle-giant-jumbo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqTSeraRegjoTvUlgXaluLWLNZUhEq-9g-aJHarQYnjX0Ho8NaHMgvfs4-RAiBMhW-dkmCK93qCgUDY5Dm3zhe_4XGDIHbSaXJpzbOx6Re_RY0ve6KZltGuV8Sqoq2JVIag1Fmw0gZdBo/s1600/gi-joe-snake-eyes-gentle-giant-jumbo.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=GE80491&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Gentle Giant G.I. Joe Jumbo Snake Eyes</a> ($119.99, Mar. 2016)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-diHabksorLw1rsoraTfBIp-8fX9aU_COfd0ehB3ZJnySNxcIuuM2-8kCNIO86xabnRz1i93GS-MlTBDpmyQae_DHR32vwYsyjYNawgKOsW23U3lB4D_H3K-SIOtxaBmRoew7VC0m1l8/s1600/hellfire-make-toys-rm-03-transformers-masterpiece-inferno.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-diHabksorLw1rsoraTfBIp-8fX9aU_COfd0ehB3ZJnySNxcIuuM2-8kCNIO86xabnRz1i93GS-MlTBDpmyQae_DHR32vwYsyjYNawgKOsW23U3lB4D_H3K-SIOtxaBmRoew7VC0m1l8/s1600/hellfire-make-toys-rm-03-transformers-masterpiece-inferno.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://maketoys.jp/products/hellfire/" target="_blank">Maketoys Re:Master Hellfire</a> - Third Party Transformers Masterpiece Inferno (Price & Release Date TBD)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnn2fLSuQ7n38AZl5QDdhlBzH5ipwyG1c3ULIGWgL-ojEX6RhR8xvll4DF3va2P9ZSbZ7x9uAoD_BKoibKtLJOhC7VHJMaMLtEANfqff6rgejOexuVORjQoZ3gwz1DSUw3Yysfuu8ZBL0/s1600/hot-toys-black-widow-avengers-age-of-ultron.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnn2fLSuQ7n38AZl5QDdhlBzH5ipwyG1c3ULIGWgL-ojEX6RhR8xvll4DF3va2P9ZSbZ7x9uAoD_BKoibKtLJOhC7VHJMaMLtEANfqff6rgejOexuVORjQoZ3gwz1DSUw3Yysfuu8ZBL0/s1600/hot-toys-black-widow-avengers-age-of-ultron.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://affiliates.sideshowtoy.com/Tracker.aspx?aid=2685&sku=902371&cid=18" target="_blank">Hot Toys <i>Avengers: Age of Ultron</i> Black Widow</a> ($219.99, Fall 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmse8OYfCTiHQewIwsEZWa_SyDch7Td56RYbT68Wquyx0HQ9hUE9sumfHecfbDYSqkFJHv6bT7ssPeTnbLWFIiy-aDgRPfuB09VTuVJ3yT2nm2DecoVrg6SwySw6vBFoknl6ggKPK09PU/s1600/neca-8-bit-godzilla.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmse8OYfCTiHQewIwsEZWa_SyDch7Td56RYbT68Wquyx0HQ9hUE9sumfHecfbDYSqkFJHv6bT7ssPeTnbLWFIiy-aDgRPfuB09VTuVJ3yT2nm2DecoVrg6SwySw6vBFoknl6ggKPK09PU/s1600/neca-8-bit-godzilla.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=NC42805&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">NECA <i>King of the Monsters</i> 8-Bit Godzilla</a> ($19.99, Jun. 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcY0Ah02aSkAacrlf2qdKMe7KpobB8yJoensiiHD1XLtTjOQYIlKO_i5S3PS6Hx9wCfeO0NCFay1YM4iz6AyMWg4z-iNuYmxlY8kZ63u_zkV2X9VbCB01s36WoYw4D35DbbvKXhNyRWBw/s1600/prahvus-club-200x-he-man-masters-of-the-universe-classics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcY0Ah02aSkAacrlf2qdKMe7KpobB8yJoensiiHD1XLtTjOQYIlKO_i5S3PS6Hx9wCfeO0NCFay1YM4iz6AyMWg4z-iNuYmxlY8kZ63u_zkV2X9VbCB01s36WoYw4D35DbbvKXhNyRWBw/s1600/prahvus-club-200x-he-man-masters-of-the-universe-classics.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.clubs.mattycollector.com/store/mattycol/en_US/pd/ThemeID.29372800/productID.314741500#.VRODMeFH6wy" target="_blank">Masters of the Universe Classics 200X Prahvus</a> ($26, Dec. 15th, 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrdj4oDNn3u2Hvl-GSB89rcZ_KxpbTPPG5YqKCOz6Yny-lv9-oh7orUJmFjbKQWadakbk9n-0z2nKPGtvx998OypdmU8J6gMyeJNf4ckMOs0VZkzFacshh2BAVl66RN_Mydk94KXcwZh0/s1600/transformers-generations-cyber-series-optimus-bumblebee-megatron.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrdj4oDNn3u2Hvl-GSB89rcZ_KxpbTPPG5YqKCOz6Yny-lv9-oh7orUJmFjbKQWadakbk9n-0z2nKPGtvx998OypdmU8J6gMyeJNf4ckMOs0VZkzFacshh2BAVl66RN_Mydk94KXcwZh0/s1600/transformers-generations-cyber-series-optimus-bumblebee-megatron.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/generations-classics-44/possible-new-subline-transformers-generations-cyber-series-182293/" target="_blank">Transformers Generations Cyber Series</a> (Price & Release Date TBD)</center>
<p>
There's a little something for every budget here. I don't fall for Third Party Transformers often, but that unofficial MP Inferno is just too good! It's great to see the awesome offerings of Hot Toys, Kotobukiya ArtFX, and MOTU Classics continue on as well. Time will tell if I'll be able to own any of this stuff, but it makes for a nice daydream!
<p>
<i>Check for future Castle Geek-Skull posts on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-34229717664241353272015-02-28T20:30:00.000-05:002015-03-08T23:16:02.490-04:0010 Of The Best Comic Book Covers Of February 2015 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHSxM4y_9OGMd-hR4Ejmg_GkT-FVTlIkz0H7ytIvB7H6bDTG2KggVPQocRxhcMy8HMCij3GONASl3WwRVdBZsXSxHtpoMhk1xHPr7ZLIfv9Aiqp9reTF_tT2Hoae2O_ss-0SWWFt6MPKk/s1600/flash-new-52-number-39-harley-quinn-variant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHSxM4y_9OGMd-hR4Ejmg_GkT-FVTlIkz0H7ytIvB7H6bDTG2KggVPQocRxhcMy8HMCij3GONASl3WwRVdBZsXSxHtpoMhk1xHPr7ZLIfv9Aiqp9reTF_tT2Hoae2O_ss-0SWWFt6MPKk/s1600/flash-new-52-number-39-harley-quinn-variant.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Is it seriously the end of the month already? The calendar can't be argued, so we may as well get our retrospection over with before moving on to March. Here are 10 of Castle Geek-Skull's favorite comic book covers of February 2015!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9olkEQxv07lfR-cZUAwLiwQ3U-R8ti2OOj4OwcN1bmnrNGOYyOr8i2V5bIKFLt8cWs0UeNX9zAWygWdw85cLwsw4DwGcFqYfDVJUUxPtk7fQgvrlBXZ_SYtJbCJaU86K18qhHJ9mR0HI/s1600/batman-vol-2-issue-39-capullo-cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9olkEQxv07lfR-cZUAwLiwQ3U-R8ti2OOj4OwcN1bmnrNGOYyOr8i2V5bIKFLt8cWs0UeNX9zAWygWdw85cLwsw4DwGcFqYfDVJUUxPtk7fQgvrlBXZ_SYtJbCJaU86K18qhHJ9mR0HI/s1600/batman-vol-2-issue-39-capullo-cover.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://shrsl.com/?~818l" target="_blank"><b><i>Batman Vol. 2</i> #39</b></a> by Greg Capullo</center>
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj448NqvKvNDYtGE3_ekhd1ZzcPDPUHlGA60NVfxjPhc9MWctzhFzACYvqWDDkVOPdDC3Ht7BLuUDJ_aZ40Dy3Xh51yF3E8Ma1sMMzqdUMf9RmKnqgen9b0NVU9Y0_Pu_hThnhMyb6usXU/s1600/d4ve-issue-1-cover-idw-publishing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj448NqvKvNDYtGE3_ekhd1ZzcPDPUHlGA60NVfxjPhc9MWctzhFzACYvqWDDkVOPdDC3Ht7BLuUDJ_aZ40Dy3Xh51yF3E8Ma1sMMzqdUMf9RmKnqgen9b0NVU9Y0_Pu_hThnhMyb6usXU/s1600/d4ve-issue-1-cover-idw-publishing.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://shrsl.com/?~818o" target="_blank"><b><i>D4ve</i> #1</b></a> by Fiona Staples</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV96pD2xJSqgiMPTT1wLABtRIcGgZkrgp7idrLTytQ4eJHLgPqDgYLF3MT18cGAvf3AZmZPArKddQ28q_1SzTjw0vsFKBhVgQDcLm5gPJ7hzXsZBsYQY3PJvjqbFueeHL1Rd0_GBjEfFE/s1600/daredevil-vol-4-marvel-now-issue-13-cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV96pD2xJSqgiMPTT1wLABtRIcGgZkrgp7idrLTytQ4eJHLgPqDgYLF3MT18cGAvf3AZmZPArKddQ28q_1SzTjw0vsFKBhVgQDcLm5gPJ7hzXsZBsYQY3PJvjqbFueeHL1Rd0_GBjEfFE/s1600/daredevil-vol-4-marvel-now-issue-13-cover.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://shrsl.com/?~818p" target="_blank"><b><i>Daredevil Vol. 4</i> #13</b></a> by Chris Samnee</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyhHiwEV13BHFdcmmOUr3hElPYkCru0A7TL7PDbuOw7a7-Cqc7B66G4DX0wVWMLq5r-elDiiBpAihTui7i5cZCyf8sPhOQbeOFWjNR-Uexj1_jpN2TAc_Jh9ij2gXzE2LB6Hp-XGwY-x4/s1600/deep-state-issue-4-cover-boom-studios.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyhHiwEV13BHFdcmmOUr3hElPYkCru0A7TL7PDbuOw7a7-Cqc7B66G4DX0wVWMLq5r-elDiiBpAihTui7i5cZCyf8sPhOQbeOFWjNR-Uexj1_jpN2TAc_Jh9ij2gXzE2LB6Hp-XGwY-x4/s1600/deep-state-issue-4-cover-boom-studios.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://shrsl.com/?~818r" target="_blank"><b><i>Deep State</i> #4</b></a> by Matt Taylor</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF57MbbZ15xpr1gXReBjRuZRa2WJUpVC6tgX7nPOE-cNlwTTHcqdM9MbSEikQWjB0SseTSvfHZiv8YBQQi8Ol_NS61R47ACmrZd9i9u6xYKTFW0FZwicWEqm-Lpe75VewO3Tebxj3jk-I/s1600/ei8ht-issue-1-cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF57MbbZ15xpr1gXReBjRuZRa2WJUpVC6tgX7nPOE-cNlwTTHcqdM9MbSEikQWjB0SseTSvfHZiv8YBQQi8Ol_NS61R47ACmrZd9i9u6xYKTFW0FZwicWEqm-Lpe75VewO3Tebxj3jk-I/s1600/ei8ht-issue-1-cover.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://shrsl.com/?~7vvj" target="_blank"><b><i>Ei8ht</i> #1</b></a> by Rafael Albuquerque</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQKtynp_3SulpZJhAf5cT9C9FtpEAc2DRG5JglMwd4aPfh3WjivPr88J4ixfSTlPh5d8PXJDg_FnQI9VLmHYwm5hfpjTJ5sXrpGTZUVILCzGOcfVL6w1ZDJu7UFepb55SzwfVuBuMLCY/s1600/fall-of-gi-joe-vol-1-cover-idw-publishing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQKtynp_3SulpZJhAf5cT9C9FtpEAc2DRG5JglMwd4aPfh3WjivPr88J4ixfSTlPh5d8PXJDg_FnQI9VLmHYwm5hfpjTJ5sXrpGTZUVILCzGOcfVL6w1ZDJu7UFepb55SzwfVuBuMLCY/s1600/fall-of-gi-joe-vol-1-cover-idw-publishing.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://shrsl.com/?~818s" target="_blank"><b><i>The Fall of G.I. Joe</i> Vol. 1</b></a> by Jeffrey Veregge</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNnA-N0PKTpoLhE2cA_JCfzHOPIoO7PKwcnfd1sCn5SOWEm6jY7LP2IH1p5mBw3wMpzSc_sxdjFiq6s5nRGsA0Ww5gYJVfavnyupSdJekai0f8Bm_Es7T5W2O0xSOBjVSGatIhEeFj8oU/s1600/flash-vol-4-issue-39-harley-quinn-variant-cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNnA-N0PKTpoLhE2cA_JCfzHOPIoO7PKwcnfd1sCn5SOWEm6jY7LP2IH1p5mBw3wMpzSc_sxdjFiq6s5nRGsA0Ww5gYJVfavnyupSdJekai0f8Bm_Es7T5W2O0xSOBjVSGatIhEeFj8oU/s1600/flash-vol-4-issue-39-harley-quinn-variant-cover.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://shrsl.com/?~818t" target="_blank"><b><i>The Flash Vol. 4</i> #39 Harley Quinn Variant</b></a> by Amanda Conner</center>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvW0e7gDEuppaRNSgnX-4xuaCwtpODIqaJa74pGCMNuW66fJOowGaNeg67zs_J7v3k4RggYxLmSFmy3RcD_TCmPka70TIBnr7B447OlRLFYoHyls1AxgPoiMISYwRc5QinXNWH-zPHTAY/s1600/marceline-gone-adrift-2-kat-leyh-incentive-cover-adventure-time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvW0e7gDEuppaRNSgnX-4xuaCwtpODIqaJa74pGCMNuW66fJOowGaNeg67zs_J7v3k4RggYxLmSFmy3RcD_TCmPka70TIBnr7B447OlRLFYoHyls1AxgPoiMISYwRc5QinXNWH-zPHTAY/s1600/marceline-gone-adrift-2-kat-leyh-incentive-cover-adventure-time.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://shrsl.com/?~818v" target="_blank"><b><i>Adventure Time: Marceline Gone Adrift</i> #2</a></b> Incentive by Kat Leyh</center>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju0FvpKLGBEGF9DD3BzzcQhZX5TQt_Cv_o4FYtL9IWrCoIwiHdj6aH_SGxHfoacNs2uDUd_OcCr-QBDURQlYTj0utITvPf4K0kpm9XY6_vyhhsxXI1q6Qpii3Z-VDejH1Sc1gwxGoraJc/s1600/rasputin-image-comics-issue-5-cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju0FvpKLGBEGF9DD3BzzcQhZX5TQt_Cv_o4FYtL9IWrCoIwiHdj6aH_SGxHfoacNs2uDUd_OcCr-QBDURQlYTj0utITvPf4K0kpm9XY6_vyhhsxXI1q6Qpii3Z-VDejH1Sc1gwxGoraJc/s1600/rasputin-image-comics-issue-5-cover.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://shrsl.com/?~818w" target="_blank"><b><i>Rasputin</i> #5</b></a> by Riley Rossmo</center>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_DPr6LRaStNsU-hIbv6ol7x3atQoxcnAmBBEdYFWo1kBbuVyIqA01_zqc1sMH4Z2xxRaQPj7jET1cz4AEbCWaVBJChxfh3lXHLHD5nFfEfwqvG6xAyhVfvCvVZPtaM5wOMUjIC_VVcCQ/s1600/spider-gwen-issue-1-cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_DPr6LRaStNsU-hIbv6ol7x3atQoxcnAmBBEdYFWo1kBbuVyIqA01_zqc1sMH4Z2xxRaQPj7jET1cz4AEbCWaVBJChxfh3lXHLHD5nFfEfwqvG6xAyhVfvCvVZPtaM5wOMUjIC_VVcCQ/s1600/spider-gwen-issue-1-cover.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://shrsl.com/?~818x" target="_blank"><b><i>Spider-Gwen</i> #1</b></a> by Robbi Rodriguez</center>
<p>
Narrowing down the choices to only 10 proves more and more difficult. Just as with <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2015/01/best-comic-covers-jan-2015.html" target="_blank">January's list</a>, there were some really beautiful compositions that I hated to leave off. Perhaps I'll break the mold and feature even more in March!
<p>
<i>For future Castle Geek-Skull updates, be sure to follow on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-30317182958935790602015-02-25T18:36:00.000-05:002015-03-04T00:58:41.311-05:00Weekly Want - Masterpiece Tracks, S.H. Figuarts, & More!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-997MOVF7MLNr2Q_mEF2CVRewHESlmwenpqUWaJT1pBqqbxzP69oV4AIH9esqw5FgvjMcVX58CAqf9tDB4IO9bqoH_uqVLqC7q3xhJW4mJM8LqX3vCxYKH9ua-GCPtJ7GB2V_jauxCc/s1600/transformers-g1-masterpiece-tracks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-997MOVF7MLNr2Q_mEF2CVRewHESlmwenpqUWaJT1pBqqbxzP69oV4AIH9esqw5FgvjMcVX58CAqf9tDB4IO9bqoH_uqVLqC7q3xhJW4mJM8LqX3vCxYKH9ua-GCPtJ7GB2V_jauxCc/s1600/transformers-g1-masterpiece-tracks.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>The ultimate in high-quality prototype images</i>!</center>
<p>
If you're still feeling unsatisfied after the onslaught of awesome upcoming plastic whozits and whatzits from <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2015/02/best-of-toy-fair-2015.html" target="_blank">ToyFair 2015</a>, there's no need to fret. There are still plenty of noteworthy wallet-killers to go around! From newly stocked items to unexpected reveals, here's the latest <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/search/label/weekly%20want" target="_blank">Weekly Want</a>!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwrd9ue8k7HBHCik-5t_onJn1U5hx1HtosJozNqtzHOpg7vpKaYu1UEA3N7Mlt8MoGQtgdHcVvxszbnEWYhg7jrsvYDp7lvtj60Eyux7tsrcsKAnjFJ8BDiUu_D6qUeK7EhZPEQumUGe8/s1600/francis-manapul-batman-black-white-statue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwrd9ue8k7HBHCik-5t_onJn1U5hx1HtosJozNqtzHOpg7vpKaYu1UEA3N7Mlt8MoGQtgdHcVvxszbnEWYhg7jrsvYDp7lvtj60Eyux7tsrcsKAnjFJ8BDiUu_D6qUeK7EhZPEQumUGe8/s1600/francis-manapul-batman-black-white-statue.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=DC0187&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Francis Manapul Batman Black & White Statue</a> ($63.96, February 2015)</center>
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCijQ6Y8ikxg7h_xcyIFZxTepJqaGOUBjRaVIeg7s0pyox-J4usT-UbPpp022ZCTPOf0pViC8UUbeB6uVEBRYeO-Px2MVa0ka_hcSMQQBr4t2X9vgvel9rpcbYDm-M-_Q9w_zYb8jRF8o/s1600/neca-burning-godzilla-12-inch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCijQ6Y8ikxg7h_xcyIFZxTepJqaGOUBjRaVIeg7s0pyox-J4usT-UbPpp022ZCTPOf0pViC8UUbeB6uVEBRYeO-Px2MVa0ka_hcSMQQBr4t2X9vgvel9rpcbYDm-M-_Q9w_zYb8jRF8o/s1600/neca-burning-godzilla-12-inch.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=NC42811&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">NECA 12-inch Burning Godzilla</a> ($17.99, March 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzLA4BjyTS5KiHoCV1QzmKHcn9soM5Sd6NXzx4Da71PXCkamHF8hAJiNgWp2afMwK2MjJgam7LudAnhxg2Ambh9l8Av9l0V0Xh0FAYB9E1btQJ1B2r4WqHEjRhsbq54jKrup5QGD0clLc/s1600/predator-masked-heat-vision-reaction-figure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzLA4BjyTS5KiHoCV1QzmKHcn9soM5Sd6NXzx4Da71PXCkamHF8hAJiNgWp2afMwK2MjJgam7LudAnhxg2Ambh9l8Av9l0V0Xh0FAYB9E1btQJ1B2r4WqHEjRhsbq54jKrup5QGD0clLc/s1600/predator-masked-heat-vision-reaction-figure.jpg" /></a></div>
<center>Toys "R" Us Exclusive Heat Vision <a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=FU3920&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Predator</a> ($9.99, February 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHU8fCs5T0gi46tPLquQhv34-Icd5HzzQjKVrY_Gm3DCubcjt3Za-LEkCw86XilN4dvmmx6UCOqjZtvK0jSdXopQbl67Vte-OBnqnxtHB_HD2u4Lys1zVwExTd3FNw_VI7z-l8K27ybg/s1600/rah-dx-kamen-rider-skull.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHU8fCs5T0gi46tPLquQhv34-Icd5HzzQjKVrY_Gm3DCubcjt3Za-LEkCw86XilN4dvmmx6UCOqjZtvK0jSdXopQbl67Vte-OBnqnxtHB_HD2u4Lys1zVwExTd3FNw_VI7z-l8K27ybg/s1600/rah-dx-kamen-rider-skull.jpg" /></a></div>
<center>Real Action Heroes DX <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004EH68ZQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004EH68ZQ&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=ZBZ4TQ5I5NTED43K" target="_blank">Kamen Rider Skull</a> 2.0 ($195, October 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSn9wg9krKhbA8RSPy7mTdfXIOL86Af_DBsvbsAbMoirIUz8EUENXxYKBmUIZLcxnNZACNHP1dJIilvIAiV25X4_OGfpfAgHw0EP4OoeBFbLNuMDxuT1Iqkpzn2652OH3zwWVDMsmDXtg/s1600/marvel-select-spider-woman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSn9wg9krKhbA8RSPy7mTdfXIOL86Af_DBsvbsAbMoirIUz8EUENXxYKBmUIZLcxnNZACNHP1dJIilvIAiV25X4_OGfpfAgHw0EP4OoeBFbLNuMDxuT1Iqkpzn2652OH3zwWVDMsmDXtg/s1600/marvel-select-spider-woman.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=DC10785&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Marvel Select Spider-Woman</a> ($22.99, February 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9mJWArJ4pBk534cMSCtsaxLFm4sXel7ywaUgZoQ6gWcxXy0EO7hf07EbhoilNgWv5JC2mApT4yG18Bp1cSFKM88uXGt7BpuSKeHnfq_aLOdAy9UeAvNnBGE-M8Z73YYrd-R26mGAcNUI/s1600/sh-figuarts-hakaider-squad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9mJWArJ4pBk534cMSCtsaxLFm4sXel7ywaUgZoQ6gWcxXy0EO7hf07EbhoilNgWv5JC2mApT4yG18Bp1cSFKM88uXGt7BpuSKeHnfq_aLOdAy9UeAvNnBGE-M8Z73YYrd-R26mGAcNUI/s1600/sh-figuarts-hakaider-squad.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.play-asia.com/paOScore/19-71-99-15-s.h.+figuarts.html?affiliate_id=1567665" target="_blank">S.H. Figuarts</a> Hakaider Squad ($135, September 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3WzJ0WPa8fF5p_uu8i0_x1GkgItbAPN5q8gb6QwXhhCe9f65Gply_5yxAm3R9ddAq10oGYLfkSlJdlH-Z9Qd3qsmhLQzsM051OWyokiE_JlDrqeYVPH0r95qAj74Pee_fgI2acc6d4LI/s1600/teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-2012-shredder-bust-bank-tmnt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3WzJ0WPa8fF5p_uu8i0_x1GkgItbAPN5q8gb6QwXhhCe9f65Gply_5yxAm3R9ddAq10oGYLfkSlJdlH-Z9Qd3qsmhLQzsM051OWyokiE_JlDrqeYVPH0r95qAj74Pee_fgI2acc6d4LI/s1600/teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles-2012-shredder-bust-bank-tmnt.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=DC671291&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2012 Shredder Bust Bank</a> ($19.99, August 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYolvd0pkVk-1ugr4Mi2tF-dCgxxsIs6lAjn59HKTxq-pz3D4K0qjDjc-XU3I9VFL0h6nKbGN4CrBvpNrj_BBZs-ZYlxPaVeeAB8A3gwBMi4VEBOsOJrnm4ont8cokQpBQhc2_OU4g3cc/s1600/ultra-act-x-sh-figuarts-ultraman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYolvd0pkVk-1ugr4Mi2tF-dCgxxsIs6lAjn59HKTxq-pz3D4K0qjDjc-XU3I9VFL0h6nKbGN4CrBvpNrj_BBZs-ZYlxPaVeeAB8A3gwBMi4VEBOsOJrnm4ont8cokQpBQhc2_OU4g3cc/s1600/ultra-act-x-sh-figuarts-ultraman.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.play-asia.com/paOScore/19-71-99-15-ultra_act.html?affiliate_id=1567665">Ultra-Act</a> x <a target="_blank" href="http://www.play-asia.com/paOScore/19-71-d-15-figuarts.html?affiliate_id=1567665">S.H. Figuarts</a> Ultraman (Price and Release Date TBD)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvBgttRNU5bFi-g27T9mGMXDixjqbPgNrFcaaEa7Iltm_2NCucSgxXPfkQBBo-6Ozi6KsnXo13nK9IBG7izmuIrQd1bh74bVJUso3zgbh2EpXxJQVKJaCILoY0TpM2q759EBKangp9o3w/s1600/transformers-masterpiece-mp-25-tracks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvBgttRNU5bFi-g27T9mGMXDixjqbPgNrFcaaEa7Iltm_2NCucSgxXPfkQBBo-6Ozi6KsnXo13nK9IBG7izmuIrQd1bh74bVJUso3zgbh2EpXxJQVKJaCILoY0TpM2q759EBKangp9o3w/s1600/transformers-masterpiece-mp-25-tracks.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.play-asia.com/paOScore/19-71-99-15-transformers+masterpiece.html?affiliate_id=1567665" target="_blank">Transformers Masterpiece</a> MP-25 Tracks ($80, Fall 2015)</center>
<p>
I've already given <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2015/02/transformers-mp-tracks-color.html" target="_blank">MP Tracks</a> plenty of love elsewhere, but how 'bout all that neat Tokusatsu stuff? <i>How 'bout it</i>? I shall purchase all of the items listed above and establish myself as the one true collector and ultimate boy king. I'll show you. I'll show you all!
<p>
<i>Hey! If you want to catch future content, make sure to follow Castle Geek-Skull on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-58020112457081067982015-02-24T14:31:00.001-05:002015-02-24T14:46:21.333-05:00Charlie Nash Is A Total Badass In Street Fighter V!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxkD88n5wYgI8YiKhbAa9XTEt39hGWaktFGzdGIgd_T_0inJVXp7Q9hCdbINRH1gUnWc0e2PEAPogU36UrE7CZq7osTn5l-ZAtFwSpXtsuBYfr9eQPTp_IuEzdqc8NRcNT-3fDHIQOugc/s1600/charlie-nash-street-fighter-v-win-pose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxkD88n5wYgI8YiKhbAa9XTEt39hGWaktFGzdGIgd_T_0inJVXp7Q9hCdbINRH1gUnWc0e2PEAPogU36UrE7CZq7osTn5l-ZAtFwSpXtsuBYfr9eQPTp_IuEzdqc8NRcNT-3fDHIQOugc/s1600/charlie-nash-street-fighter-v-win-pose.jpg" alt="Street Fighter V Charlie"/></a></div>
<center><i>This is his happy face</i>.</center>
<p>
The fine folks at <a href="http://www.capcom-unity.com/combofiend/blog/2015/02/24/announcing-the-return-of-nash-and-the-street-fighter-v-online-beta-program" target="_blank">Capcom Unity</a> have just released a new <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QXJFE08/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B00QXJFE08&link_code=as3&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=32YFWH2T4PGKIY7W" target="_blank"><i>Street Fighter V</i></a> gameplay trailer! This time, the <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2014/12/street-fighter-v-capcom-cup-2014.html" target="_blank">previously teased</a> character Charlie Nash gets the spotlight. Though formerly deceased in the series' storyline, clearly nefarious means have brought forth his resurrection. <p>
No longer the heroic sort fans grew to love during the 1990s' <i>Street Fighter Alpha</i> series, Nash now comes across as a villainous badass. The corresponding gameplay looks quite promising. His classic moves have returned alongside some slick new tricks. The trailer is quite effective in making him look like an absolute powerhouse.
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0R9nPwaSY1DjGornMx2mbncXbSFcCEHSC4-dZc2OaPUZDcpjYXPIXy6kRgt12F0Hd9qbPXcqEqNNklf7b8gdRuYjo78TYTwMOlq1qre2CAv5weR6JJIUbL5MgQTznZNSkhx9hL1I87-Y/s1600/charlie-nash-street-fighter-v-match-intro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0R9nPwaSY1DjGornMx2mbncXbSFcCEHSC4-dZc2OaPUZDcpjYXPIXy6kRgt12F0Hd9qbPXcqEqNNklf7b8gdRuYjo78TYTwMOlq1qre2CAv5weR6JJIUbL5MgQTznZNSkhx9hL1I87-Y/s1600/charlie-nash-street-fighter-v-match-intro.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Whoa. Switch to decaf, dude</i>.</center>
<p>
Straight away, the character's intro scene tells you all you need to know. He greets his opponents with a firm warning: "If you try to stop me, I'll have to kill you." Worries that <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2015/01/street-fighter-v-for-kids.html" target="_blank"><i>Street Fighter V</i> will be "for kids"</a> feel less and less unfounded.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJA-iJPQ4TMbs8nJ8A-tXGP1P1ZADy0Q2pHyNcDyhP96yeZzv6KYZDW4sPMvFj-M_khyphenhyphenTNbCGcPRBQtwIjy3o9g5az0EiFy09e9nUe8a8A5Voth8DuhokJjLlR6uUfzfXgrzH_XVylBlw/s1600/charlie-nash-street-fighter-v-sonic-boom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJA-iJPQ4TMbs8nJ8A-tXGP1P1ZADy0Q2pHyNcDyhP96yeZzv6KYZDW4sPMvFj-M_khyphenhyphenTNbCGcPRBQtwIjy3o9g5az0EiFy09e9nUe8a8A5Voth8DuhokJjLlR6uUfzfXgrzH_XVylBlw/s1600/charlie-nash-street-fighter-v-sonic-boom.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJe6DKNVKazjK62kmtmv_mVqPpehsSTYPzKuPa9RWquTKhWHL7Sdz1sTzN_x6IyIfiLP7urqf3q5NHK01JkBps2-q1XiZgd-N9F-F6R5abOvPGxM6IYS64yZp1-HWL7OIkGAk1qzOMtU/s1600/charlie-nash-street-fighter-v-ex-sonic-boom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJe6DKNVKazjK62kmtmv_mVqPpehsSTYPzKuPa9RWquTKhWHL7Sdz1sTzN_x6IyIfiLP7urqf3q5NHK01JkBps2-q1XiZgd-N9F-F6R5abOvPGxM6IYS64yZp1-HWL7OIkGAk1qzOMtU/s1600/charlie-nash-street-fighter-v-ex-sonic-boom.jpg" alt="Street Fighter V Nash gameplay"/></a></div>
<p>
The obligatory Sonic Boom looks better than ever here, particularly in its powered-up "EX" form. Nash can also teleport now, opening up the door to plenty of fireball traps and other shenanigans. At one point, he uses his newfound maneuverability to cleanly escape Ryu's Shinku Hadoken.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL5nbbAPDbkG3gj8GgjFsSzoejf8pXkauOPk-PY0DqFpAkbTpqUDQix7kbqeAGzMAW-EjsTRBDy2G7_7CHRrPV_prlfn2zCzuVV_2ANE7qYxqVYQjdWWz4_AdgjKsFXesvrTmNPEHa2wo/s1600/charlie-nash-street-fighter-v-somersault-shell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL5nbbAPDbkG3gj8GgjFsSzoejf8pXkauOPk-PY0DqFpAkbTpqUDQix7kbqeAGzMAW-EjsTRBDy2G7_7CHRrPV_prlfn2zCzuVV_2ANE7qYxqVYQjdWWz4_AdgjKsFXesvrTmNPEHa2wo/s1600/charlie-nash-street-fighter-v-somersault-shell.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
<p>
Here we see the return of Nash's Somersault Shell, a move similar to Guile's Flash Kick. It appears to have several different uses now, even opening up juggle combos.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Jp4baRIkvZKs280xdwVfYjnkETPQfyNraKqidHCsCa4nVwOrKiAkl6V5npHK22A6aCJ_8-w3r1AmdQYeUKDT7_naSlHxizXmjCFIR6vRt2JCYFJ-hPaIGxd8lb_hsGcLICZUpo3SxJM/s1600/charlie-nash-street-fighter-v-ground-pound.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Jp4baRIkvZKs280xdwVfYjnkETPQfyNraKqidHCsCa4nVwOrKiAkl6V5npHK22A6aCJ_8-w3r1AmdQYeUKDT7_naSlHxizXmjCFIR6vRt2JCYFJ-hPaIGxd8lb_hsGcLICZUpo3SxJM/s1600/charlie-nash-street-fighter-v-ground-pound.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqw68Lw9xk5Ppn-0ZNJ2r7nzfGMpMehaaWARfhLvlfTD8v-BLd2Y1qg-Vhh2PL-xKl0-ncm19EOqfV27T8ZPi6LOAgb7ZRGvzsBdr7H75ipOz_hZdenL5dmrFl-xOTBEeC70HxiApDQs/s1600/charlie-nash-street-fighter-v-super-move.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqw68Lw9xk5Ppn-0ZNJ2r7nzfGMpMehaaWARfhLvlfTD8v-BLd2Y1qg-Vhh2PL-xKl0-ncm19EOqfV27T8ZPi6LOAgb7ZRGvzsBdr7H75ipOz_hZdenL5dmrFl-xOTBEeC70HxiApDQs/s1600/charlie-nash-street-fighter-v-super-move.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
As the trailer continues on, poor Chun-Li is subject to a brutal energized "ground pound" of sorts. Nash later activates what's likely his Super or Ultra move before dramatically vanishing. The screen turns black as he reappears behind his disoriented opponent. I'm pretty sure whatever follows isn't going to be a hug.
<p>
After seeing all of this, I'm seriously thrilled that Capcom decided to bring Charlie Nash back into the fold for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QXJFE08/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B00QXJFE08&link_code=as3&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=32YFWH2T4PGKIY7W" target="_blank"><i>Street Fighter V</i></a>. He looks awesome in the game's 2.5D aesthetic, especially given his frenetic new play style. If you haven't checked out the full trailer yet, check it out below!
<p>
<center><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1JT-IvFkUhA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></center>
<p>
BTW, I'm pretty sure the ominous end-tease is for M. Bison. I'm not sure why he'd be treated as such a big deal at this point, but I'm definitely down with it.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_U-Bs5KQXFis14fqiYEUiaa-ZjuWoQBMSAjg8xTqArbIUCSEWKaR-xZApbfpDkMf92V9BugvO2jF7PfmW5kCahEC5I2oRitCHyxkG9P7IKQEmDN-Ykeae6qWVnwIsnvW8HNsf3feUA4E/s1600/street-fighter-v-m-bison-vega-tease.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_U-Bs5KQXFis14fqiYEUiaa-ZjuWoQBMSAjg8xTqArbIUCSEWKaR-xZApbfpDkMf92V9BugvO2jF7PfmW5kCahEC5I2oRitCHyxkG9P7IKQEmDN-Ykeae6qWVnwIsnvW8HNsf3feUA4E/s1600/street-fighter-v-m-bison-vega-tease.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Ooh</i>.</center>
<p>
Despite being a year away, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QXJFE08/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B00QXJFE08&link_code=as3&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=32YFWH2T4PGKIY7W" target="_blank"><i><b>Street Fighter V</b></i> is now available for Pre-Order from Amazon.com</a>.
<p>
<i>For future Castle Geek-Skull updates, you can follow along on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-16315023188399091232015-02-20T23:30:00.000-05:002015-02-21T18:18:01.456-05:00Transformers Masterpiece MP-25 Tracks In Glorious Digital Color!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNk7pZpaaxSQg-jy9aFKeWsnAXwrB1n3JHCdM161NdHhkkOxdsvNHmFvpQSsDuKwQkG2bvEMiRN2UpefICj51u4d1sQiVqr4kY5lgCAcXK3Z51l0fh9u1cM876fKSxrbyloFrrOg9WoJk/s1600/transformers-masterpiece-mp25-g1-tracks-color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNk7pZpaaxSQg-jy9aFKeWsnAXwrB1n3JHCdM161NdHhkkOxdsvNHmFvpQSsDuKwQkG2bvEMiRN2UpefICj51u4d1sQiVqr4kY5lgCAcXK3Z51l0fh9u1cM876fKSxrbyloFrrOg9WoJk/s1600/transformers-masterpiece-mp25-g1-tracks-color.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>I say</i>!</center>
<p>
Thanks to TFW2005's Sup3hobo, we now have a look at the upcoming <a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&fst=as%3Aoff&keywords=transformers%20masterpiece&linkCode=ur2&qid=1424513403&rh=n%3A165793011%2Cn%3A2514571011%2Ck%3Atransformers%20masterpiece&rnid=165795011&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=ZRMGOD426TCHTAGS" target="_blank">Transformers Masterpiece</a> MP-25 Tracks. Scanned from a Japanese toy magazine, <a href="http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/transformers-masterpiece-47/masterpiece-mp-25-tracks-revealed-182160/" target="_blank">the photo</a> shows off an early look at the classic 1985 character's prototype. I must say, it looks quite promising!
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirANYpfbk5KqXjscxQ1cECkYZl_l8fzr_s97LI_DI_hBB4uHBeJI1G4lHFwD3a19eG-SNtvR2GMwBj4D6Hm7fCXAzQuFjyaeQS446e3h6i7W9kjFY1E8zHbRMOu28Cd8w9mMrl6OEQ6_0/s1600/transformers-masterpiece-mp25-tracks-prototype.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirANYpfbk5KqXjscxQ1cECkYZl_l8fzr_s97LI_DI_hBB4uHBeJI1G4lHFwD3a19eG-SNtvR2GMwBj4D6Hm7fCXAzQuFjyaeQS446e3h6i7W9kjFY1E8zHbRMOu28Cd8w9mMrl6OEQ6_0/s1600/transformers-masterpiece-mp25-tracks-prototype.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Why hello there</i>.</center>
<p>
While it won't be long before plenty more images of MP Tracks begin to surface, I was curious to see what it might look like in color <i>now</i>. Thankfully, I have Photoshop to help facilitate such desires. I pulled up a screenshot of the character model for accuracy and went to town. That Multiply layer never knew what hit it. <i>Yeah</i>.
<p>
Anyway, here's what I came up with:
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUPL7erM5J2c275P9PEIAvAPgL6EtwAGl_Zbt8RenwDblmKn_yELhz_Vq2SUgSobT6eF3zhlBPXKc4SMU11MZ5SOxaOslf00VAXWIIBGMLibK-G5Aiw75EQC517o3S46xB9H5ZW5rWOo/s1600/transformers-masterpiece-mp-25-tracks-color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUPL7erM5J2c275P9PEIAvAPgL6EtwAGl_Zbt8RenwDblmKn_yELhz_Vq2SUgSobT6eF3zhlBPXKc4SMU11MZ5SOxaOslf00VAXWIIBGMLibK-G5Aiw75EQC517o3S46xB9H5ZW5rWOo/s1600/transformers-masterpiece-mp-25-tracks-color.jpg" alt="Transformers Masterpiece Tracks" /></a></div>
<p>
Now, I know this isn't perfect. There's always a bit of guesswork that comes into digitally coloring prototypes. This is likely far from completely accurate, but it does offer a <i>sense</i> of what the finished MP-25 Tracks might look like.
<p>
Of course, no toy reveal ever goes off without a hitch. There's always going to be some flaw or inaccurate detail to go on and on about. With Tracks, a lot of fans feel he's too skinny. Some assume the image may have been stretched. Whatever the case, I'm personally really looking forward to owning this some day.
<p>
<i>Keep up with Castle Geek-Skull updates by following on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-37772845620645490912015-02-19T16:53:00.000-05:002015-02-23T22:47:42.903-05:00Number Ones - Ei8ht #1 Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigBAbDddnLXAmSI4XM4FpxMz7RD2mmJauG3AY3SgnbMeaG3lO15nLmo6MYBsjHYr4njmLErZmjC29yOh_NHya6DIoiLMQc6N-asuhIQrBfxwz8P2gyLfwIuCpntLnnaOC6eq_Q-B52FRk/s1600/ei8ht-issue-1-cover-rafael-albuquerque-dark-horse-comics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigBAbDddnLXAmSI4XM4FpxMz7RD2mmJauG3AY3SgnbMeaG3lO15nLmo6MYBsjHYr4njmLErZmjC29yOh_NHya6DIoiLMQc6N-asuhIQrBfxwz8P2gyLfwIuCpntLnnaOC6eq_Q-B52FRk/s1600/ei8ht-issue-1-cover-rafael-albuquerque-dark-horse-comics.jpg" alt="Ei8ht #1 cover"/></a></div>
<center><i>"One day, he wasn't in his time at all."</i></center>
<p>
Rafael Albuquerque and Mike Johnson's <a href="http://shrsl.com/?~7vvj" target="_blank"><i>Ei8ht</i></a> brings us the story of a time travel mission gone wrong. Stranded and disoriented, chrononaut Joshua has found himself in quite a mess. It may seem simple at face value, but it's a strong enough premise to warrant checking out.
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQ-96yUrhLoecTtfKeiAmiMZ9bWZXQz4gIegi-VEzLx1N5H2QAn3XSc5FJBDKOg-or8GWPxnlwc-ZEdmPihJMEqTsSJlVvXkq2sWyUP9o0iQKeopA9FlEw8WFUi0Yt2DsTOiKFHIxPFY/s1600/ei8ht-issue-1-time-machine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQ-96yUrhLoecTtfKeiAmiMZ9bWZXQz4gIegi-VEzLx1N5H2QAn3XSc5FJBDKOg-or8GWPxnlwc-ZEdmPihJMEqTsSJlVvXkq2sWyUP9o0iQKeopA9FlEw8WFUi0Yt2DsTOiKFHIxPFY/s1600/ei8ht-issue-1-time-machine.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
With nonlinear storytelling and a sparse, contrasting color palette, the book carries a highly mysterious tone. Our lead character even struggles to recall his own name. Minor fragments of memory are there, mostly revolving around a laboratory that reminds me of a more futuristic version of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYxoZRWMW8U" target="_blank"><i>Franken's Gears</i></a>. Nothing seems to be going right at all, tapping right into the reader's curiosity.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz0mY33yrYv_gNKU9O-s6lpeLXD04Y9hQxytKEtHIm1vIr7NvWmK7lUb3yH0WRAmCR54V-cDiVQczCH7GpsfzijvdGOscIhhWXE2KNaez13AcLnre7eCzaYmEJL3tp1TQ_mwfPQYNvETI/s1600/ei8ht-issue-1-joshua-stranded.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz0mY33yrYv_gNKU9O-s6lpeLXD04Y9hQxytKEtHIm1vIr7NvWmK7lUb3yH0WRAmCR54V-cDiVQczCH7GpsfzijvdGOscIhhWXE2KNaez13AcLnre7eCzaYmEJL3tp1TQ_mwfPQYNvETI/s1600/ei8ht-issue-1-joshua-stranded.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Joshua's color-coded wrist device is meant to allow communication with the team that sent him. Unfortunately, it's very much on the fritz. Don't you hate days where Murphy's Law sinks its teeth in and just doesn't let go?
<p>
When he finally gets some semblance of a signal, his instructions are garbled and oddly cryptic. This is something straight out a dream, where hardly anything makes sense.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwrwL2ZoMBdnMW-BLyHcqtyMdMIO-KSUTMimEceq7pXMu2BK26CSoxM0FL9VI-Z-ijDgvkLGB1XCv7c923-9M_gHjIm2uaKRPza6zPcffzPMEai4ckNGy7ocHUjmsiNL4JDMVW_1iLXII/s1600/ei8ht-issue-1-follow-the-dinosaur.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwrwL2ZoMBdnMW-BLyHcqtyMdMIO-KSUTMimEceq7pXMu2BK26CSoxM0FL9VI-Z-ijDgvkLGB1XCv7c923-9M_gHjIm2uaKRPza6zPcffzPMEai4ckNGy7ocHUjmsiNL4JDMVW_1iLXII/s1600/ei8ht-issue-1-follow-the-dinosaur.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Yeah, that's right. Joshua is told to "follow the dinosaur." I'm not sure if that sounds more like a dance craze or the motto of some freaky cult, but I'm definitely down with it. That goes double when it leads to a skirmish with 1980's post-apocalyptic styled ruffians.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzGgg9u4W5acTqbuvch6f_zTxHcqCa4nZBqBnJP01moAOIggh4CLoDUlhFott39gWPZhj6A_47hZpV96z8b_8dhkFqqFStl5wf00gJuHkq2hu6bEON2qVn5U3VJTaQIfRpuh08EjIHeI/s1600/ei8ht-issue-1-nila.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzGgg9u4W5acTqbuvch6f_zTxHcqCa4nZBqBnJP01moAOIggh4CLoDUlhFott39gWPZhj6A_47hZpV96z8b_8dhkFqqFStl5wf00gJuHkq2hu6bEON2qVn5U3VJTaQIfRpuh08EjIHeI/s1600/ei8ht-issue-1-nila.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
These guys aren't exactly pleased that Joshua has "dropped in." The altercation ultimately leads to answers about his whereabouts, simultaneously setting us up for the next issue. It turns out our protagonist is stuck in a place called "the Meld," and the group he's stumbled upon might not be so bad after all. However, the wreckage of his ship has unfortunately drawn the attention of The Spear: an ominous figure who seems anything but friendly. 3, 2, 1...cliffhanger!
<p>
As an illustrator driven comic, the art is definitely at the forefront here. Such a simple color palette could have easily felt tedious, but it really enhances the overall mood. Going further, there's a truly dynamic sense to the layouts. The panels shift between simple and painstakingly detailed, and the linework is incredibly lively. The book remains fascinating even when the lead character is doing little more than yelling into his wrist for several pages. Rafael Albuquerque's artwork is impressive indeed.
<p>
The overall storytelling also delivers. The book <i>shows</i> more than it tells, trusting its readers to follow along without hand-holding. Joshua knows about as much as we do, making it easy to become invested in his predicament as it develops. Albuquerque and Johnson are really on point here.
<p>
Ultimately, <a href="http://shrsl.com/?~7vvj" target="_blank"><i>Ei8ht</i> #1</a> was a solid read. You can definitely count me in for the next issue.
<p>
<i>For further updates, follow Castle Geek-Skull on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-76238309370251956232015-02-18T14:15:00.000-05:002015-02-21T15:49:48.313-05:00Weekly Want - Toy Fair 2015 Highlights!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Z-RlwO_1fyPhupmFBX54Na4eM1jMEKUk9WUFPD7urO2oxL6fEVAEfSfj6yRyPk9E5Sk-CDVASnMcP3qS2640Z3IPra7vAGKiDoyFAFVwNnwtWFDgBe1JCraUK07C-AcxCd9NuEL6B5o/s1600/transformers-generations-combiner-wars-defensor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Z-RlwO_1fyPhupmFBX54Na4eM1jMEKUk9WUFPD7urO2oxL6fEVAEfSfj6yRyPk9E5Sk-CDVASnMcP3qS2640Z3IPra7vAGKiDoyFAFVwNnwtWFDgBe1JCraUK07C-AcxCd9NuEL6B5o/s1600/transformers-generations-combiner-wars-defensor.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Just. Take. The. Money</i>.</center>
<p>
With <a href="http://www.toyfairny.com/" target="_blank">Toy Fair 2015</a> now behind us, it seems fitting to dedicate the latest <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/search/label/weekly%20want" target="_blank">Weekly Want</a> to some of the event's coolest featured items. The fun just never ends here on Castle Geek-Skull. Let's get to it!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9UaAqpDBw9i0SSL3pkH-PlU51oFo0bHM8rt0-Xbb8pyerI1UEwzjJIhIVXM37a9BQEc26hoTmtqO-0JapPCUjup75ipHYtUIcHAZ80QlqNjIsYM-n4s0PWQwim679fxNFCpPJpXFudg/s1600/mask-of-the-phantasm-2-pack-dc-collectibles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9UaAqpDBw9i0SSL3pkH-PlU51oFo0bHM8rt0-Xbb8pyerI1UEwzjJIhIVXM37a9BQEc26hoTmtqO-0JapPCUjup75ipHYtUIcHAZ80QlqNjIsYM-n4s0PWQwim679fxNFCpPJpXFudg/s1600/mask-of-the-phantasm-2-pack-dc-collectibles.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=DC0272&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">DC Collectibles <i>Batman: Mask of the Phantasm</i> 2 Pack</a> ($32.99, Oct. 2015)</center>
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbns7elaVUxiumh1sCdXIc65xZxmZSn0dynsnfzffnviQ85N8pFtg0pSW2xwsil_pLJRGeNOzcIrePFQHTKa8uuOqnJw0qjrPFuqqae3IpkdpduSBrXlte_SsjYEzFJMhpEKMQp3KgM0U/s1600/batman-animated-series-batmobile-dc-collectibles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbns7elaVUxiumh1sCdXIc65xZxmZSn0dynsnfzffnviQ85N8pFtg0pSW2xwsil_pLJRGeNOzcIrePFQHTKa8uuOqnJw0qjrPFuqqae3IpkdpduSBrXlte_SsjYEzFJMhpEKMQp3KgM0U/s1600/batman-animated-series-batmobile-dc-collectibles.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=DC0271&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">DC Collectibles <i>Batman: The Animated Series</i> Batmobile</a> ($84.99, Oct. 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKke9Twqg7D5kq1UZrkRTCVu2L5OntSbeNwbE4sWG8bk4YvJTX-RpuKDcAAkKACB9rSZsrZRu0Pi0gbWPeylkv5eTrHOMMXS3DP4tk9DvjHPix-usXxashDpImow6oHkf7jlowX0dS9N8/s1600/black-adam-dc-collectibles-icons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKke9Twqg7D5kq1UZrkRTCVu2L5OntSbeNwbE4sWG8bk4YvJTX-RpuKDcAAkKACB9rSZsrZRu0Pi0gbWPeylkv5eTrHOMMXS3DP4tk9DvjHPix-usXxashDpImow6oHkf7jlowX0dS9N8/s1600/black-adam-dc-collectibles-icons.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=DC0259&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">DC Collectibles Icons Black Adam</a> ($22.99, Dec. 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjzka8P4tiQuFlejIJkYOiEj6Z5xvYxL88CLfa61fd-_KkOYFegCBtdIXKKx903meF-0_RMXk1ewGkzWb3y-7NRUuYNnq9rVaSBzNPROAmG76GpSfn3RTRgdXTe1KeQApWj2-dz_c4Nk/s1600/diamond-select-ghostbusters-7-inch-ray-winston.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjzka8P4tiQuFlejIJkYOiEj6Z5xvYxL88CLfa61fd-_KkOYFegCBtdIXKKx903meF-0_RMXk1ewGkzWb3y-7NRUuYNnq9rVaSBzNPROAmG76GpSfn3RTRgdXTe1KeQApWj2-dz_c4Nk/s1600/diamond-select-ghostbusters-7-inch-ray-winston.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/hitlist.asp?id=CA-108078943&company=Diamond+Select&theme=Ghostbusters" target="_blank">DST Ghostbusters</a> Select Ray & Winston ($24.99 each, Fall 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijDPJPdtazFQE-wyBBhIZnPBRG30xp_gBaF7GJnoaSrj4oPMSd_WDkQArac3_BOJMsY9QMgLrdd4VYZGiG0NnzAOg9kaJenHvZjdXlUrRr934acirO69unFslvD3uaaET4eB0WjIGZqy4/s1600/fifth-element-reaction-figures-korben-leeloo-ruby-rhod-zorg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijDPJPdtazFQE-wyBBhIZnPBRG30xp_gBaF7GJnoaSrj4oPMSd_WDkQArac3_BOJMsY9QMgLrdd4VYZGiG0NnzAOg9kaJenHvZjdXlUrRr934acirO69unFslvD3uaaET4eB0WjIGZqy4/s1600/fifth-element-reaction-figures-korben-leeloo-ruby-rhod-zorg.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/hitlist.asp?id=CA-108078943&theme=Fifth+Element" target="_blank">Funko ReAction <i>Fifth Element</i> figures</a> ($9.99 each, May 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikav2G-D7syAIunR5noyfhHn3-R7jU8i0QeCXyhypFwNwY4dLAlA3MoS5pkzpL2-KIyca0h7-YU79wRGJYa7fFl_l4PMyBP4vPhWVekHUZBuHNpQw4uT1lSiZhtpUvGQ5cnLZEhO8aRug/s1600/lego-ninjago-attack-of-the-moro-dragon-70736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikav2G-D7syAIunR5noyfhHn3-R7jU8i0QeCXyhypFwNwY4dLAlA3MoS5pkzpL2-KIyca0h7-YU79wRGJYa7fFl_l4PMyBP4vPhWVekHUZBuHNpQw4uT1lSiZhtpUvGQ5cnLZEhO8aRug/s1600/lego-ninjago-attack-of-the-moro-dragon-70736.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.amazon.com/mn/search/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=lego%20ninjago&linkCode=ur2&sprefix=lego%20n%2Caps&tag=casgeesku-20&url=search-alias%3Daps&linkId=WKEPDJPBSVOP3ADX" target="_blank">LEGO Ninjago</a> Attack of the Moro Dragon Set 70736 (Price & Release Date TBD)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo_P5eCDz06A9gpxayJV7SQM3tE8UVok07HJ52lB6DP9u4uGupbFpdlkpDzYFRVX0gGFYrvnkSwTh7eJUbsklhP3VtRZYD-iUeL0zeZ8IO9AI8_7QkFm31nG_C-V6YP2Ge_eWMaKoa4m4/s1600/marvel-legends-daredevil-2015-hasbro-spider-man-wave-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo_P5eCDz06A9gpxayJV7SQM3tE8UVok07HJ52lB6DP9u4uGupbFpdlkpDzYFRVX0gGFYrvnkSwTh7eJUbsklhP3VtRZYD-iUeL0zeZ8IO9AI8_7QkFm31nG_C-V6YP2Ge_eWMaKoa4m4/s1600/marvel-legends-daredevil-2015-hasbro-spider-man-wave-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&fst=as%3Aoff&keywords=marvel%20legends&linkCode=ur2&qid=1424549041&rh=n%3A165793011%2Cn%3A165993011%2Cn%3A2514571011%2Ck%3Amarvel%20legends&rnid=165795011&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=DAURFZEUKOCELVHH">Marvel Legends</a> Daredevil ($19.99, Release Date TBD)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM5wFQ0sJ8EecdfuZrksAJSA9w-goYaMW-4ofHRkoWyVH0UzwDcbYTNfZ2mf1139iWNjvoU0fwA77ajyiAgWmkkhyiEeAoAp_4O4Y16Aa5POHDqfXgNeMPbQBS1STPpd4SfwCUYwo2Ip0/s1600/marvel-legends-infinite-spider-woman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM5wFQ0sJ8EecdfuZrksAJSA9w-goYaMW-4ofHRkoWyVH0UzwDcbYTNfZ2mf1139iWNjvoU0fwA77ajyiAgWmkkhyiEeAoAp_4O4Y16Aa5POHDqfXgNeMPbQBS1STPpd4SfwCUYwo2Ip0/s1600/marvel-legends-infinite-spider-woman.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&fst=as%3Aoff&keywords=marvel%20legends&linkCode=ur2&qid=1424549041&rh=n%3A165793011%2Cn%3A165993011%2Cn%3A2514571011%2Ck%3Amarvel%20legends&rnid=165795011&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=DAURFZEUKOCELVHH">Marvel Legends</a> Spider-Woman ($19.99, Release Date TBD)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxTboPVjaxjN8MxnCPHM1b6JdIQRv9FE9hL1sjNhyAR6mzUNlERQQDz3e0fyWctLia9l55fTPd9tz2gmMv84Wp89pU7jrn79W0pueq03RzvCoFppOhCuA7YlPvPmZ4L5Bt9JPTe13OSEQ/s1600/neca-aliens-power-loader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxTboPVjaxjN8MxnCPHM1b6JdIQRv9FE9hL1sjNhyAR6mzUNlERQQDz3e0fyWctLia9l55fTPd9tz2gmMv84Wp89pU7jrn79W0pueq03RzvCoFppOhCuA7YlPvPmZ4L5Bt9JPTe13OSEQ/s1600/neca-aliens-power-loader.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=NC51416&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">NECA <i>Aliens</i> Power Loader P-5000 Deluxe Vehicle</a> ($96.99, Aug. 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6OPS8qbsNRME0NIFnfqPX67lL49cLfKfwUEbI7TufjhRXuLw21Nx8md0lZbtbLiZcELq3LHgxx0xYnBd2SkaUZMwzgN9-c0h-vLf5qH1pS2iN7bsrvDsAHH5Mz3L987hxfdZ3E66uQnk/s1600/voltron-ultimate-ex-toynami.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6OPS8qbsNRME0NIFnfqPX67lL49cLfKfwUEbI7TufjhRXuLw21Nx8md0lZbtbLiZcELq3LHgxx0xYnBd2SkaUZMwzgN9-c0h-vLf5qH1pS2iN7bsrvDsAHH5Mz3L987hxfdZ3E66uQnk/s1600/voltron-ultimate-ex-toynami.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/hitlist.asp?id=CA-108078943&company=Toynami&theme=Voltron" target="_blank">Toynami</a> Ultimate EX Voltron (Price & Release Date TBD)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaWXXBoKEui4zuy8PzOWV-EBylyfLrM3iKKThDMoeVp3RI3qAx9gAJlucQNNktl0zBaVWbw861JQ1SRPdDk2iAXVuzRVi4t4iSBGtyHmlhAjkrHbSN0_6x9-GPrZSiA2kIta7YfCT20j0/s1600/predator-dark-horse-25th-anniversary-figure-neca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaWXXBoKEui4zuy8PzOWV-EBylyfLrM3iKKThDMoeVp3RI3qAx9gAJlucQNNktl0zBaVWbw861JQ1SRPdDk2iAXVuzRVi4t4iSBGtyHmlhAjkrHbSN0_6x9-GPrZSiA2kIta7YfCT20j0/s1600/predator-dark-horse-25th-anniversary-figure-neca.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=NC51521&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">NECA Dark Horse Comics Predator</a> ($22.99, July 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFottAcIZ1Uue763ZrDDqprXRrTDedntd09xPcZgu7G2ENWxPDuq7b3IHk3wvV-5U9o6W6ITBuAj13FXdRNj_HuHfiQ6la6dXb-fQK6o9iyd-gWW02vRCN208VytbxruRid1eslYVwZrI/s1600/star-wars-hero-mashers-boba-fett.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFottAcIZ1Uue763ZrDDqprXRrTDedntd09xPcZgu7G2ENWxPDuq7b3IHk3wvV-5U9o6W6ITBuAj13FXdRNj_HuHfiQ6la6dXb-fQK6o9iyd-gWW02vRCN208VytbxruRid1eslYVwZrI/s1600/star-wars-hero-mashers-boba-fett.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Star Wars</i> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=hero%20mashers&linkCode=ur2&rh=n%3A2514571011%2Ck%3Ahero%20mashers&tag=casgeesku-20&url=node%3D2514571011&linkId=JCVOU4KV67V2WZA7">Hero Mashers</a> Boba Fett ($14.99, Fall 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDmkjv2ZgJLgwe6UFK5tWT_BNumJtM97Q2_8pwtQOWPMf9wKhBgIbaLt0-n0NO5A7gVokAy6fQki1L-HPS16mH7VePb4Lv53edZg1MP1_XGN3oOpSs6UF6yIArxbWRCSihXGziPx7NR1A/s1600/star-wars-hero-mashers-darth-vader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDmkjv2ZgJLgwe6UFK5tWT_BNumJtM97Q2_8pwtQOWPMf9wKhBgIbaLt0-n0NO5A7gVokAy6fQki1L-HPS16mH7VePb4Lv53edZg1MP1_XGN3oOpSs6UF6yIArxbWRCSihXGziPx7NR1A/s1600/star-wars-hero-mashers-darth-vader.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Star Wars</i> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=hero%20mashers&linkCode=ur2&rh=n%3A2514571011%2Ck%3Ahero%20mashers&tag=casgeesku-20&url=node%3D2514571011&linkId=JCVOU4KV67V2WZA7">Hero Mashers</a> Darth Vader ($9.99, Fall 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidJ-YI__dLw0gfekPKCbrlPvFmZWT7vL5Dlzs7aq_p7snaVbOY2-mdkqMNbXeADdrE37tocDcG-t0D-uR9xRy_LyynBOciIAUBtXpw0FS5Va5Uhs8Hu9aGDaGfsHFMnQN8PwC4XRIXZrQ/s1600/transformers-combiner-wars-viper-gi-joe-cobra.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidJ-YI__dLw0gfekPKCbrlPvFmZWT7vL5Dlzs7aq_p7snaVbOY2-mdkqMNbXeADdrE37tocDcG-t0D-uR9xRy_LyynBOciIAUBtXpw0FS5Va5Uhs8Hu9aGDaGfsHFMnQN8PwC4XRIXZrQ/s1600/transformers-combiner-wars-viper-gi-joe-cobra.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=combiner%20wars&linkCode=ur2&rh=n%3A165793011%2Cn%3A165993011%2Cn%3A2514571011%2Ck%3Acombiner%20wars&tag=casgeesku-20&url=node%3D2514571011&linkId=VYJS62EITHRFYYCI">Transformers Combiner Wars</a> Legends Viper ($9.99, Spring 2015) </center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkivNpYgrQeNpJrdiIAXTJJdXmQTzckqAL-f0VvhYN1alKXknL47A3ANtgXKoDLCNdJIQwsSNmEuTM_IvZvoZMDgPpz1DzHXafQKBHqw8CIH1abmSOzvrWX-Yp6-Eeqc9rBJL8FLh1enE/s1600/transformers-leader-ultra-magnus-minimus-combiner-wars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkivNpYgrQeNpJrdiIAXTJJdXmQTzckqAL-f0VvhYN1alKXknL47A3ANtgXKoDLCNdJIQwsSNmEuTM_IvZvoZMDgPpz1DzHXafQKBHqw8CIH1abmSOzvrWX-Yp6-Eeqc9rBJL8FLh1enE/s1600/transformers-leader-ultra-magnus-minimus-combiner-wars.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=combiner%20wars&linkCode=ur2&rh=n%3A165793011%2Cn%3A165993011%2Cn%3A2514571011%2Ck%3Acombiner%20wars&tag=casgeesku-20&url=node%3D2514571011&linkId=VYJS62EITHRFYYCI">Transformers Combiner Wars</a> Leader Ultra Magnus & Minimus Ambus ($44.99, Spring 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5fBThEeJCIQm0JLfs-gzjWX9DfarqfVg7ofM3cjz_o4H7ZEkqccLUupWzz7RT5e2FQIHtogYAgeknEHLPCvz98Lu050I9ym8gKqsZOysgd2O_XgIE9X4-oHgVH4SPXXGduHRnPJbv9wM/s1600/transformers-warrior-jazz-robots-in-disguise-2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5fBThEeJCIQm0JLfs-gzjWX9DfarqfVg7ofM3cjz_o4H7ZEkqccLUupWzz7RT5e2FQIHtogYAgeknEHLPCvz98Lu050I9ym8gKqsZOysgd2O_XgIE9X4-oHgVH4SPXXGduHRnPJbv9wM/s1600/transformers-warrior-jazz-robots-in-disguise-2015.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=transformers%20robots%20in%20disguise%202015&linkCode=ur2&rh=n%3A165793011%2Ck%3Atransformers%20robots%20in%20disguise%202015&sprefix=transformers%20robots%20in%20disguise%2Cundefined%2C158&tag=casgeesku-20&url=search-alias%3Dtoys-and-games&linkId=7KDU45GVV53GOQ44"><i>Transformers: Robots in Disguise</i> 2015</a> Warrior Jazz ($14.99, Spring 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_LDbYxpDfukI8x9iuDmNI2JsjjRnKYUjjyBsRBboWYXDt_SktzrZQrcnvaf6dAUItELTx_9T8SZLRz-qnTYxmKuQZHZDahNBufWaMkJYa6khCj0LkuxB7KtHVNo8KDy9sDZjgtQU9ieI/s1600/transformers-combiner-wars-defensor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_LDbYxpDfukI8x9iuDmNI2JsjjRnKYUjjyBsRBboWYXDt_SktzrZQrcnvaf6dAUItELTx_9T8SZLRz-qnTYxmKuQZHZDahNBufWaMkJYa6khCj0LkuxB7KtHVNo8KDy9sDZjgtQU9ieI/s1600/transformers-combiner-wars-defensor.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=combiner%20wars&linkCode=ur2&rh=n%3A165793011%2Cn%3A165993011%2Cn%3A2514571011%2Ck%3Acombiner%20wars&tag=casgeesku-20&url=node%3D2514571011&linkId=VYJS62EITHRFYYCI">Transformers Combiner Wars</a> Protectobots Defensor ($84.95 total, Spring 2015)</center>
<p>
Of course, these only scratch the surface. The images above obviously represent my favorites, but there were <i>tons</i> of awesome items on display. It goes without saying; Toy Fair 2015 left me wishing I had <i>way</i> more disposable cash on hand!
<p>
<i>If you'd like to catch future Castle Geek-Skull updates, follow along on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-7874961893408132872015-02-15T21:30:00.000-05:002015-04-08T14:41:29.135-04:00The Transformers Brand Had A Strong Showing At Toy Fair 2015!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb6AnbhNJPsF5tZfU9yHWzqqqDNMokgZqt3tfUxC7YpTizHgcahPVDel2xl51g4c2_jSqn_ZUt_ldbBSku8V483v9M74Svim_kYq-7z6mhEdE2R4OhEk3GwAsmGv73H6wEcf7ffZ2JqZE/s1600/ultra-magnus-transformers-generations-leader-class.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb6AnbhNJPsF5tZfU9yHWzqqqDNMokgZqt3tfUxC7YpTizHgcahPVDel2xl51g4c2_jSqn_ZUt_ldbBSku8V483v9M74Svim_kYq-7z6mhEdE2R4OhEk3GwAsmGv73H6wEcf7ffZ2JqZE/s1600/ultra-magnus-transformers-generations-leader-class.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Looks like he can deal with it now, ho ho ho</i>.</center>
<p>
I'm almost certainly biased in the matter, but I'm of the firm belief that the Transformers brand completely stole the show at Toy Fair 2015. In effort to prolong my robot-fueled high as long as possible, I'm going to pour over as many of the eye-catching new reveals and official promo images as I can. Tag along, won't you?
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh04dO8-c2mDtIsrGj0nBfM7Zhi3kJqP29yd5hyNmTIm8bpBWyVE60LgpwaYjyOKk9AxMzYNSnZWHyiDovKMTcb97w5NVTWFzlL8CbGN2pcj0pmFSXBUpqOEc-AjzTyCrUDuWHCsn2G3kw/s1600/hot-spot-combiner-wars-protectobots-voyager-class-transformers-generations.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh04dO8-c2mDtIsrGj0nBfM7Zhi3kJqP29yd5hyNmTIm8bpBWyVE60LgpwaYjyOKk9AxMzYNSnZWHyiDovKMTcb97w5NVTWFzlL8CbGN2pcj0pmFSXBUpqOEc-AjzTyCrUDuWHCsn2G3kw/s1600/hot-spot-combiner-wars-protectobots-voyager-class-transformers-generations.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><b>Combiner Wars Voyager Proctectobot Hot Spot</b></center>
<p>
While the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009NVUZU2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009NVUZU2&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=ILNFJ5TJVBK6OKNM" target="_blank">GDO Hot Spot</a> made from Universe Inferno was an acceptable placeholder, the firetruck Protectobot leader now has a fantastic original sculpt on the way. Once again, patience pays off!
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilkZ8jOClQ-Aa0YxeJS5P6kXuoP_qX_hol7wAGelpic3FF2qriMwgHDpcPtmJyOxK8MaFB6bMG2dWDyjwSWjcDASLMjQyMsF8o6QGFZb5qrmxmPq3ipZBovVlM1Zhl5gWYuHL4RqobisI/s1600/rook-combiner-wars-protectobots-deluxe-class-transformers-generations.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilkZ8jOClQ-Aa0YxeJS5P6kXuoP_qX_hol7wAGelpic3FF2qriMwgHDpcPtmJyOxK8MaFB6bMG2dWDyjwSWjcDASLMjQyMsF8o6QGFZb5qrmxmPq3ipZBovVlM1Zhl5gWYuHL4RqobisI/s1600/rook-combiner-wars-protectobots-deluxe-class-transformers-generations.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><b>Combiner Wars Deluxe Protectobot Rook</b></center>
<p>
The Combiner Wars Protectobots also have an original team member on deck: the incredibly alluring Rook! The headsculpt is — if you'll excuse me — flat-out <i>bitchin</i>', and he can mount weapons (and even Defensor's gigantic hands) on his fists. I'm sold!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEpMiG_Pa__OVrR4Ng9b2Wo3eeKFHk1jZ5Ml_D118K_RQZk7MQoL1EyBJZ3jU7RLP802eLGvL1mGkZYHFKfFggm7Z6r8hMJyfZr3CyPnGFQTjrapgcyPYVy-JgNKhMJUifUnuYjfqgfxQ/s1600/first-aid-combiner-wars-protectobots-deluxe-class-transformers-generations.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEpMiG_Pa__OVrR4Ng9b2Wo3eeKFHk1jZ5Ml_D118K_RQZk7MQoL1EyBJZ3jU7RLP802eLGvL1mGkZYHFKfFggm7Z6r8hMJyfZr3CyPnGFQTjrapgcyPYVy-JgNKhMJUifUnuYjfqgfxQ/s1600/first-aid-combiner-wars-protectobots-deluxe-class-transformers-generations.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><b>Combiner Wars Deluxe Protectobot First Aid</b></center>
<p>
This famous pacifist 'Bot comes to us by way of an <a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HSB0974AA&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">Off-Road</a> remold. It's a bit silly for him to have an axe, but he looks wonderful all the same.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcocMF3o5XXgh3SbX-ltfVvuZEbY-Tn2QbGs-WOfKvD1P1czjEDTYms8IV_TPI6xsdKxLKPA_9ht9Rb2wrjyvT69QgVll9COuUnXBtbU1J_I__verJTdvhuGmp73I-__N-Ru_G_u335-k/s1600/blades-combiner-wars-protectobots-deluxe-class-transformers-generations.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcocMF3o5XXgh3SbX-ltfVvuZEbY-Tn2QbGs-WOfKvD1P1czjEDTYms8IV_TPI6xsdKxLKPA_9ht9Rb2wrjyvT69QgVll9COuUnXBtbU1J_I__verJTdvhuGmp73I-__N-Ru_G_u335-k/s1600/blades-combiner-wars-protectobots-deluxe-class-transformers-generations.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><b>Combiner Wars Deluxe Protectobot Blades</b></center>
<p>
I might just give First Aid's axe to this dude; he loves to fight! There's not much new here given heavy re-use from the Aerialbot placeholder <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NYSRPQC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00NYSRPQC&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=5LLE7ZHLCCE4X3EU" target="_blank">Alpha Bravo</a>, but it's pretty clear the base mold was probably meant for Blades from the start.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWiSq8xGJsp5tdDIBYMvYpBoTxkKVXF_BcOf6pivAFNjJtH69eDMkfBmDBH0gXoqJbDCZ00jgLVpqZDfVgEFSnXpr7970esHpXDJjfkjyIcj2fQcmuIiy-rwiIzTE1dMA-TdE3HBJcvOc/s1600/streetwise-combiner-wars-protectobots-deluxe-class-transformers-generations.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWiSq8xGJsp5tdDIBYMvYpBoTxkKVXF_BcOf6pivAFNjJtH69eDMkfBmDBH0gXoqJbDCZ00jgLVpqZDfVgEFSnXpr7970esHpXDJjfkjyIcj2fQcmuIiy-rwiIzTE1dMA-TdE3HBJcvOc/s1600/streetwise-combiner-wars-protectobots-deluxe-class-transformers-generations.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><b>Combiner Wars Deluxe Protectobot Streetwise</b></center>
<p>
Oh, geez. I'm fond of the whole team, but Streetwise would probably be my choice if I were only getting one of the Combiner Wars Protectobots. No offense to the likes of Prowl, but I'm not sure law enforcement has ever looked this stylish in the Autobot ranks.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3vXySkhWGmQ23wbv6T0B12qAIoH4Z-dHU8wVe-GZQkJLc4h2oxT4J5uM9Jw6G4GRY5aiJ2DKCcUMHtYDnLhl4hOu2RSDM6f66c5WJiw5eXQscZ1hW3co5qW4nInX477bAkYED6tK-h-Q/s1600/groove-combiner-wars-protectobots-transformers-generations-legends-class.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3vXySkhWGmQ23wbv6T0B12qAIoH4Z-dHU8wVe-GZQkJLc4h2oxT4J5uM9Jw6G4GRY5aiJ2DKCcUMHtYDnLhl4hOu2RSDM6f66c5WJiw5eXQscZ1hW3co5qW4nInX477bAkYED6tK-h-Q/s1600/groove-combiner-wars-protectobots-transformers-generations-legends-class.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><b>Combiner Wars Legends Protectobot Groove</b></center>
<p>
Hasbro will undoubtedly lose some of the die-hards over downgrading Groove from a limb component to a mere chest-plate. The smaller size makes sense for his motorcycle vehicle form however, and I actually welcome the funky new take on the robot mode.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnbYbMZS4xVr0d-Rd7l32SeyragwOWKF_3xrVJUE5PXMTkUs083U8WY4SQL1qUU9dm6YwnlLjrc9RHPbM0MVxv30Jb6z5timKWt_WMDDPCY3bCa5I1Z_xOWoL7qq32v-MoKjoQM-NwM8Y/s1600/defensor-combiner-wars-transformers-generations.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnbYbMZS4xVr0d-Rd7l32SeyragwOWKF_3xrVJUE5PXMTkUs083U8WY4SQL1qUU9dm6YwnlLjrc9RHPbM0MVxv30Jb6z5timKWt_WMDDPCY3bCa5I1Z_xOWoL7qq32v-MoKjoQM-NwM8Y/s1600/defensor-combiner-wars-transformers-generations.jpg" alt="Combiner Wars Defensor"/></a></div>
<center><b>Combiner Wars Protectobot Defensor</b></center>
<p>
Man, Combiner Wars Defensor has quite a bit of heft to him. The original toy <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2014/06/generation-1-autobot-highlights.html" target="_blank">is my personal favorite of the 1986 Autobot assortment</a>, so of course I'm very glad to see it given a worthy modern update.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWy2StuJNeadEEJrNEFKHmS9gmTbttNPePc_D8vTMYGiinR_KaiFDxvbKLJZRhRAc7K_Jm9Z-QtwCHuXIhm7QjiE20uyIl5qj-dnsXb8NK9fsqA-Z1TxtuSmcPVx14kC19EDKJE2enLzE/s1600/cyclonus-combiner-wars-voyager-class-transformers-generations.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWy2StuJNeadEEJrNEFKHmS9gmTbttNPePc_D8vTMYGiinR_KaiFDxvbKLJZRhRAc7K_Jm9Z-QtwCHuXIhm7QjiE20uyIl5qj-dnsXb8NK9fsqA-Z1TxtuSmcPVx14kC19EDKJE2enLzE/s1600/cyclonus-combiner-wars-voyager-class-transformers-generations.jpg" alt="Combiner Wars Cyclonus"/></a></div>
<center><b>Combiner Wars Voyager Cyclonus</b></center>
<p>
This one is pretty strange. The existing <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0043E2XAO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0043E2XAO&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=IKB2MOB6IP2TJPXU" target="_blank">Classics Cyclonus</a> has held up well over the years, so it's not as if a new version was exactly clamored for. Still, you can't go wrong with that sexy-ass futuristic jet design.
<p>
Oh, and his combiner-mode torso forms Galvatronus: an obvious G1 Galvatron homage. That's weird as well, but perhaps it'll at least make for a cool toy.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzibywEcAonJ2oBg5uSFVbSksVZ78oaGeOFg4OH0Br0cmYU1rsX25H1OsU-kcWbL49FbHJre9I9hql47NJmiFxzmqb_qDmdaU5_qHM9zbfQhiEWJjCRwTsx60IO6sLFoFCDiXoY3Gb5-Q/s1600/viper-combiner-wars-transformers-generations-legends-class.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzibywEcAonJ2oBg5uSFVbSksVZ78oaGeOFg4OH0Br0cmYU1rsX25H1OsU-kcWbL49FbHJre9I9hql47NJmiFxzmqb_qDmdaU5_qHM9zbfQhiEWJjCRwTsx60IO6sLFoFCDiXoY3Gb5-Q/s1600/viper-combiner-wars-transformers-generations-legends-class.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><b>Combiner Wars Legends Viper</b></center>
<p>
Viper is a beautiful homage to the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00535P3W2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00535P3W2&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=MN6VDZOJFTJBZCNQ" target="_blank">G.I. Joe Cobra Rattler vehicle</a> (and its pilot, Wild Weasel.) Given the sad state of the Joe franchise, I'm absolutely beaming to see it get some love from the guys on the Transformers team.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieOh6ItUs_RGPAtotVdOCh8Il4RTxfaHz-TniNcwzFUCnfTdkDwdpNS_qG-SDPihJhw2wB5SYi15zynNYzWr6YedYJsZYLVWq-n1Fx_KXnBQxDQTi8_aPZMui94E1Bz8ZTMHBdU3XvAcE/s1600/warpath-combiner-wars-transformers-generations-legends-class.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieOh6ItUs_RGPAtotVdOCh8Il4RTxfaHz-TniNcwzFUCnfTdkDwdpNS_qG-SDPihJhw2wB5SYi15zynNYzWr6YedYJsZYLVWq-n1Fx_KXnBQxDQTi8_aPZMui94E1Bz8ZTMHBdU3XvAcE/s1600/warpath-combiner-wars-transformers-generations-legends-class.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><b>Combiner Wars Legends Warpath</b></center>
<p>
It's corny, but I can't fight the urge to just list a bunch of onomatopoeias whenever I see a Warpath toy. Feel free to join in. Here goes: <b>Bam! Boom! <i>Pow!</i></b>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJNH2t2bJBpY9dLNSue3kBR8QKSH_qXhdL6Eh4LPJCrjUnGZ-DgSDLrodyyOMdX5v43jbL6naRAUku6BWZ2AtfXo-6BdVkoKOjGUBu49hBvxYQUGEM9IcxO-HaqEljZC9CINLgbS7TsI/s1600/ultra-magnus-minimus-ambus-leader-class-transformers-generations-combiner-wars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJNH2t2bJBpY9dLNSue3kBR8QKSH_qXhdL6Eh4LPJCrjUnGZ-DgSDLrodyyOMdX5v43jbL6naRAUku6BWZ2AtfXo-6BdVkoKOjGUBu49hBvxYQUGEM9IcxO-HaqEljZC9CINLgbS7TsI/s1600/ultra-magnus-minimus-ambus-leader-class-transformers-generations-combiner-wars.jpg" alt="Transformers Generations Leader Ultra Magnus"/></a></div>
<center><b>Combiner Wars Leader Ultra Magnus with Minimus Ambus</b></center>
<p>
Leader Class Ultra Magnus might be the biggest highlight of Toy Fair 2015 for me — Transformers or otherwise! The inclusion of modern ideas from the IDW comics (complete with an awesome Minimus Ambus figure) has made for what might be the swankiest version of the beloved City Commander to date.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggeyE_LKxD9_WWmYXFbLetKHYr5La3oplOrTVh6L8OjDM_L8rj8YCtnDFB_Jbw-BP8XKDgGyyYEdLfevrfrqacSeQWBDbEW-by_n2VLljezM2o9FNJmcdidjCjH64tELnMl7CmVkmWSis/s1600/constructicons-combiner-wars-transformers-generations-hook-long-haul-scrapper-bonecrusher-scavenger-hook-mixmaster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggeyE_LKxD9_WWmYXFbLetKHYr5La3oplOrTVh6L8OjDM_L8rj8YCtnDFB_Jbw-BP8XKDgGyyYEdLfevrfrqacSeQWBDbEW-by_n2VLljezM2o9FNJmcdidjCjH64tELnMl7CmVkmWSis/s1600/constructicons-combiner-wars-transformers-generations-hook-long-haul-scrapper-bonecrusher-scavenger-hook-mixmaster.jpg" alt="Transformers Combiner Wars Constructicons"/></a></div>
<center><b>Combiner Wars Constructicons</b> (Bonecrusher, Hook, Long Haul, Mixmaster, Scavenger, Scrapper)</center>
<p>
The new Constructicons are fantastic representations of the oldschool designs with just enough original flair. Some compromises were made here/there for the sake of the combination, but I think they make for quite a kick-ass team.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3NoPMp5eX0VkbTikP0WnK6oaIC0UQtH0VlQpvtqD4Ju-7DaRpos2dyBIGyiLPN-s6lbP2Qh0GvDsuAr_nMYVMjePVoZgLx7KHosTIZK7GEqL3qu844PRnBVzWK2vz8khKCCdzbOQ1Noo/s1600/devastator-combiner-wars-transformers-generations.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3NoPMp5eX0VkbTikP0WnK6oaIC0UQtH0VlQpvtqD4Ju-7DaRpos2dyBIGyiLPN-s6lbP2Qh0GvDsuAr_nMYVMjePVoZgLx7KHosTIZK7GEqL3qu844PRnBVzWK2vz8khKCCdzbOQ1Noo/s1600/devastator-combiner-wars-transformers-generations.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><b>Combiner Wars Constructicon Titan Devastator</b></center>
<p>
We'd already been spoiled on the combined Devastator, but I think it looks even more promising now that higher quality images are available.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVaqlvmAiELw0H4roHSFejkf9-czUG3c3ZglSEuttTf01TOHOVsknD-2iX3Mg9EJp9N3-EJMOOy3otTrjTsFmqIi6RbdRludgYht_Z0TeV9vtq0sbOGy4Db-S2Nu1HUlrFUZfS2QbaNw/s1600/fixit-transformers-robots-in-disguise-legion-class.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVaqlvmAiELw0H4roHSFejkf9-czUG3c3ZglSEuttTf01TOHOVsknD-2iX3Mg9EJp9N3-EJMOOy3otTrjTsFmqIi6RbdRludgYht_Z0TeV9vtq0sbOGy4Db-S2Nu1HUlrFUZfS2QbaNw/s1600/fixit-transformers-robots-in-disguise-legion-class.jpg" alt="Robots in Disguise Fixit"/></a></div>
<center><b>Robots in Disguise Legion Fixit</b></center>
<p>
The frantic new Mini-Con Fixit is getting the Legion Class treatment, allowing for the best possible scale when displaying him alongside the <i>Robots in Disguise</i> Warrior class toys.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidc_y2bHFLxRSOAWuVgAuQ8AekvgNfpTNlfOjijAtbM1JdnroZ8HDtBAHYnvgIJP0L0fngXbZIdm0oh2VfJJaHvUB3ZbE0_C68LI7uVESKwR9AAqQ05_OTaNqZP-5pl-q8eC-kca7KoJo/s1600/fracture-airrazor-transformers-robots-in-disguise-deployers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidc_y2bHFLxRSOAWuVgAuQ8AekvgNfpTNlfOjijAtbM1JdnroZ8HDtBAHYnvgIJP0L0fngXbZIdm0oh2VfJJaHvUB3ZbE0_C68LI7uVESKwR9AAqQ05_OTaNqZP-5pl-q8eC-kca7KoJo/s1600/fracture-airrazor-transformers-robots-in-disguise-deployers.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><b>Robots in Disguise Deployers Fracture with Airrazor</b></center>
<p>
Though held back by the Deployer gimmick, this is the best looking of the two Fracture toys revealed thus far. This release is also the only way to get the rad Airrazor Mini-Con.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTPbcsArl5XPdkoV1jQ01c6EiXkld3vURzJyUV7wJm3ASXcJcGazdzhDV2qeBSa7xYCOYFvaQXGq9on_GaEpkuhdQF6C8ps0Y0YRzQhygUQr4QAQfpJJnOc-FC8k3jOhEk8grHsaRRJ3c/s1600/ratbat-transformers-robots-in-disguise-mini-cons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTPbcsArl5XPdkoV1jQ01c6EiXkld3vURzJyUV7wJm3ASXcJcGazdzhDV2qeBSa7xYCOYFvaQXGq9on_GaEpkuhdQF6C8ps0Y0YRzQhygUQr4QAQfpJJnOc-FC8k3jOhEk8grHsaRRJ3c/s1600/ratbat-transformers-robots-in-disguise-mini-cons.jpg" alt="Robots in Disguise Ratbat"/></a></div>
<center><b>Robots in Disguise Mini-Con Ratbat</b></center>
<p>
I'm always down for new Ratbat toys! This re-imagined <i>Robots in Disguise</i> Mini-Con version is likely to be one of the line's most highly clamored for releases amongst longtime franchise fans.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDjY_WEozT1iuteThexZWvwwctE5ehRZ3ig0iXL2oXUciBe0XLSuYkOk8PhW5FEqFLS_oIQ-dG2nT6u2cA3cowapgffbS-rrYkK5B5PSrHADj4soI9_7zR6EgzxZ3hLiGyNSdB8gnnEno/s1600/velocirazor-transformers-robots-in-disguise-mini-cons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDjY_WEozT1iuteThexZWvwwctE5ehRZ3ig0iXL2oXUciBe0XLSuYkOk8PhW5FEqFLS_oIQ-dG2nT6u2cA3cowapgffbS-rrYkK5B5PSrHADj4soI9_7zR6EgzxZ3hLiGyNSdB8gnnEno/s1600/velocirazor-transformers-robots-in-disguise-mini-cons.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><b>Robots in Disguise Mini-Con Velocirazor</b></center>
<p>
You're tellin' me they're putting out a funky teal dinosaur named freakin' <i>Velocirazor</i>? Yeah, I'm all over that.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi78fYYlqk7kHOewxWm1DZnaLhWYxDH805TPSFQ7KQV2Q_xbUkWDnecii1aIJNSnLaGIwrH3sATqs837T14WB3Iqq_v2EFwjx3jdQDRbSYXn54onfblGBlqI7rJTUDCMORFnBJ6-s7sMTU/s1600/sawback-transformers-robots-in-disguise-mini-cons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi78fYYlqk7kHOewxWm1DZnaLhWYxDH805TPSFQ7KQV2Q_xbUkWDnecii1aIJNSnLaGIwrH3sATqs837T14WB3Iqq_v2EFwjx3jdQDRbSYXn54onfblGBlqI7rJTUDCMORFnBJ6-s7sMTU/s1600/sawback-transformers-robots-in-disguise-mini-cons.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><b>Robots in Disguise Mini-Con Sawback</b></center>
<p>
Sawback doesn't have quite the same level of quirkiness as some of the other new Mini-Cons, but he's more than cool enough to make up for it.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD5fPkEHhY-SMdjmuNPnO5oOSfCDFf99KERbch7DV1skkG3-cZWBJ-0uxZTsyCwjV792kvMT8G9CM8NkFUE30wKRARBrO3h93WE67_ocWxH1h2EQJOVjIhUJQCv-X9GZ30V1gi4uYGjQQ/s1600/slipstream-transformers-robots-in-disguise-mini-cons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD5fPkEHhY-SMdjmuNPnO5oOSfCDFf99KERbch7DV1skkG3-cZWBJ-0uxZTsyCwjV792kvMT8G9CM8NkFUE30wKRARBrO3h93WE67_ocWxH1h2EQJOVjIhUJQCv-X9GZ30V1gi4uYGjQQ/s1600/slipstream-transformers-robots-in-disguise-mini-cons.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><b>Robots in Disguise Mini-Con Slipstream</b></center>
<p>
While <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LXCKAFE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00LXCKAFE&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=I5CW5XH5XQPZ2XLO" target="_blank"><i>Robots in Disguise</i> Drift</a> is more than capable of standing on his own, I doubt I'll be able to resist grabbing his Mini-Con partner Slipstream. It would appear that I'm weaker to samurai 'Bots than I realized.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSJ_fNvZHfZPDbRTjQ1tbaju3-RcgVYAJYOZ7PYfZ6duW5zo2X6-_TeKBNLsLwcTmQTAk0Ix518W-krk3q6oozNSf5ssh99TWVSaDemSZ2Vd0B8JDT9X3k09P9YlbByhQQeEJmrBN3cE4/s1600/mega-optimus-prime-transformers-robots-in-disguise-2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSJ_fNvZHfZPDbRTjQ1tbaju3-RcgVYAJYOZ7PYfZ6duW5zo2X6-_TeKBNLsLwcTmQTAk0Ix518W-krk3q6oozNSf5ssh99TWVSaDemSZ2Vd0B8JDT9X3k09P9YlbByhQQeEJmrBN3cE4/s1600/mega-optimus-prime-transformers-robots-in-disguise-2015.jpg" alt="Robots in Disguise 2015 Optimus Prime"/></a></div>
<center><b>Robots in Disguise Mega Optimus Prime</b></center>
<p>
I'm pretty sure "Mega Optimus Prime" will only be able to stand around statically given the one-step transformation, but the general aesthetic reminds me of the late Japanese G1 Autobots and the <i>Brave</i> franchise. Count me in!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTCsyizBPYbFg-VwLULXwfM6pNdZ-q6QlUAHgnUVZidGikM5CKaonD8I3O7CBLQ61CxIhAeHAMCPnun4LG4qe-zI9SN7wKx8xVCI4_RJQ4CSzEauzv4HnMgBwqvdUIMxPdA6ClVp1HFro/s1600/thunderhoof-transformers-robots-in-disguise-one-step-changers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTCsyizBPYbFg-VwLULXwfM6pNdZ-q6QlUAHgnUVZidGikM5CKaonD8I3O7CBLQ61CxIhAeHAMCPnun4LG4qe-zI9SN7wKx8xVCI4_RJQ4CSzEauzv4HnMgBwqvdUIMxPdA6ClVp1HFro/s1600/thunderhoof-transformers-robots-in-disguise-one-step-changers.jpg" alt="Robots in Disguise Thunderhoof"/></a></div>
<center><b>Robots in Disguise One-Step Thunderhoof</b></center>
<p>
Since <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2015/01/transformers-rid-thunderhoof.html" target="_blank">Thunderhoof is my favorite new Transformer</a>, I'm pretty much obligated to take the plunge on this thing. While I'd prefer a more well-rounded Warrior class release, sometimes you just have to take what you can get.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJErck8TJjrGXfijXVtMyOCJI3cHl8w29A2PUsD7zDmajubuZPFFlMiydomXb9wmTDEs3bpiumLkC9KegFZOBiEv_z-BSDFOeyVCXhvPNvgYnKeR_3pZMvsvazdo1X4uSxdhfwTOdsyEA/s1600/jazz-transformers-robots-in-disguise-warrior-class.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJErck8TJjrGXfijXVtMyOCJI3cHl8w29A2PUsD7zDmajubuZPFFlMiydomXb9wmTDEs3bpiumLkC9KegFZOBiEv_z-BSDFOeyVCXhvPNvgYnKeR_3pZMvsvazdo1X4uSxdhfwTOdsyEA/s1600/jazz-transformers-robots-in-disguise-warrior-class.jpg" alt="Robots in Disguise Jazz"/></a></div>
<center><b>Robots in Disguise Warrior Jazz</b></center>
<p>
Now-inevitable hollow parts aside, <i>Robots in Disguise</i> Jazz is looking mighty damn fine.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeO3wigBKazMZhPvwtEUqtiXA6K1IENhlhjiUQ1Mtat4FbopQfBeati4DCDriD6U50nZ2jcPkW2OW9c9cVGlmrw1Iey9Qe-BpeEj8PvdJEKIpZk-rPyM0Hje1hancEGSACFDP3ju21vA/s1600/sideswipe-transformers-robots-in-disguise-warrior-class.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeO3wigBKazMZhPvwtEUqtiXA6K1IENhlhjiUQ1Mtat4FbopQfBeati4DCDriD6U50nZ2jcPkW2OW9c9cVGlmrw1Iey9Qe-BpeEj8PvdJEKIpZk-rPyM0Hje1hancEGSACFDP3ju21vA/s1600/sideswipe-transformers-robots-in-disguise-warrior-class.jpg" alt="Robots in Disguise deluxe Sideswipe"/></a></div>
<center><b>Robots in Disguise Warrior Sideswipe</b></center>
<p>
The face might be a little dopier than I'd like, but Sideswipe and "cool" are almost always synonymous. The vehicle mode caught my eye immediately, and I usually don't give a single damn about such things.
<p>
That's a lot of awesome transforming plastic coming our way, and I didn't even list everything! Transformers toys haven't made this much of a bang at Toy Fair in quite a while. As a lifelong franchise fan, I'm feeling pretty freakin' hyped right now.
<p>
<i>If you want to catch future Castle Geek-Skull updates, feel free to follow along on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-41833638169543698962015-02-14T22:58:00.000-05:002015-02-18T11:23:53.151-05:00Harley Quinn Valentine's Day Special #1 Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRdYKpQZYZZsbnOYaTBh_UH2UB6dSG5wKSFDmSlCt0E5YSDI_Cix37sa7AwWwZ4RytxeaKOeP1xxZUfGJVTlh8kfaD4ozyh6bZPCoSJFfjb_RlyAAd7NakB4rl-MmrHf9WFyi5ul-X9yk/s1600/harley-quinn-valentines-day-special-cover-dc-comics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRdYKpQZYZZsbnOYaTBh_UH2UB6dSG5wKSFDmSlCt0E5YSDI_Cix37sa7AwWwZ4RytxeaKOeP1xxZUfGJVTlh8kfaD4ozyh6bZPCoSJFfjb_RlyAAd7NakB4rl-MmrHf9WFyi5ul-X9yk/s1600/harley-quinn-valentines-day-special-cover-dc-comics.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Pucker up</i>.</center>
<p>
Oh look, it's Valentine's Day. Since I'm going it alone this year, I may as well take the opportunity to indulge in a little "me time." I'll give you a moment to get your mind out of the gutter; I'm saying it's time to read some comics!
<p>
I may not be in the hearts n' kisses mood, but what the hell; let's see what <a href="http://shrsl.com/?~7t53" target="_blank"><i>Harley Quinn Valentine's Day Special</i> #1</a> has in store!
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif-TDO30Iw6FX0BVgfg48_JMuhtndDE1zcJVBREn7S6bT-trxoQkL-loqQ04rCkF2G4AF1UqPXGTzn7Z9XXhJzhnyF9wzkrcKpxHB3HjschgxAiTImkOTW4x3E1fgTtLg2ZzwroIJmaxg/s1600/harley-quinn-valentines-day-special-robbery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif-TDO30Iw6FX0BVgfg48_JMuhtndDE1zcJVBREn7S6bT-trxoQkL-loqQ04rCkF2G4AF1UqPXGTzn7Z9XXhJzhnyF9wzkrcKpxHB3HjschgxAiTImkOTW4x3E1fgTtLg2ZzwroIJmaxg/s1600/harley-quinn-valentines-day-special-robbery.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>I think more comics should reference Batman's butt. Maybe they *all* should.</i></center>
<p>
In all honesty, this was an easy sell. Harley Quinn is a big-time favorite of mine, and writers Amanda Conner and Jimmy Palmiotti really know how to make her fun. The featured story revolves around Harley going to great lengths to secure a charity-auction date with Bruce Wayne. No monetary deficit or would-be vigilante kidnappers can stand in her way. It's as throw-away as a holiday One-Shot can be, and the talented creative team makes the absolute most of it.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdBKXRp7p_vjHv27QglVYHbzOrYNV6qI3ddsWdVlbqHi6ywLJTWTmVhHGVLGBDOSmsItBOG8CDvfOl3dtMAkFQZ1XGxCP8MlhywiUNiXAETMzv3GjOA7Bzantc7FuQyf2HwIdalqWrOpk/s1600/harley-quinn-valentines-day-special-harley-robin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdBKXRp7p_vjHv27QglVYHbzOrYNV6qI3ddsWdVlbqHi6ywLJTWTmVhHGVLGBDOSmsItBOG8CDvfOl3dtMAkFQZ1XGxCP8MlhywiUNiXAETMzv3GjOA7Bzantc7FuQyf2HwIdalqWrOpk/s1600/harley-quinn-valentines-day-special-harley-robin.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>I wouldn't be surprised to see this pairing on a T-shirt someday.</i></center>
<p>
All of the best aspects of <a href="http://shrsl.com/?~7t55" target="_blank">the current <i>Harley Quinn</i> series</a> are in full display. Even with the occasional burst of violence, the overall tone is lighthearted and genuinely funny. From a goofy dream sequence depicting our star as Batman's new sidekick to palling around with a whale for the sheer hell of it, the book has a real playfulness. <i>I kind of love it</i>.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdjNnd6OmKanhRK3UDWyHAa76W4o3CeOJg_ZGxdXVbNcrdl2zaycpJrxngP3PJi4mSkkN7cCXvJmMdFxXDNvbvUIGuSrZYAHbLY9kX3xB60bxPG9WUtLTktkUg7yUAW5YTVJfhENny8do/s1600/harley-quinn-valentines-day-special-carp-sea-robin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdjNnd6OmKanhRK3UDWyHAa76W4o3CeOJg_ZGxdXVbNcrdl2zaycpJrxngP3PJi4mSkkN7cCXvJmMdFxXDNvbvUIGuSrZYAHbLY9kX3xB60bxPG9WUtLTktkUg7yUAW5YTVJfhENny8do/s1600/harley-quinn-valentines-day-special-carp-sea-robin.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>So...when are we getting action figures of these guys?</i></center>
<p>
The excellent writing is perfectly matched by John Timms' slick illustration. At any time, Harley might need to be portrayed as silly, affectionate, or a total bad-ass, and Timms handles the entire range with great precision. Our unfortunate "antagonists" Carp and Sea Robin even look like they mean business when necessary. Guest artists Ben Caldwell and Aaron Campbell tackle the wacky dream sequences, adding even more dimension to the already rich visuals.
<p>
Ultimately, I had a great time here. <a href="http://shrsl.com/?~7t53" target="_blank"><i>Harley Quinn Valentine's Day Special</i> #1</a> added a bright spot to an otherwise lonely day. If you're a fan of the character, I definitely suggest checking it out!
<p>
<i>If you want to see more of Castle Geek-Skull's reviews, watch for updates on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-16859297336715126172015-02-12T16:48:00.000-05:002015-04-16T17:58:39.307-04:00Number Ones - Star Wars: Darth Vader #1 Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpGiuibp1CmeG_YWa9zJsbQpKJpr9wf4gZ6tt5SuuiCuNCCtkEhr6_XrfTDstaFjMyyfeIlQJSOiCF2l4ek3oYxTq64VGhEsFSirmRdU3Sg6eLeuw0vT55PKdBxT7sgiHTJL9ukgih_oU/s1600/marvel-darth-vader-comic-issue-1-cover-star-wars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpGiuibp1CmeG_YWa9zJsbQpKJpr9wf4gZ6tt5SuuiCuNCCtkEhr6_XrfTDstaFjMyyfeIlQJSOiCF2l4ek3oYxTq64VGhEsFSirmRdU3Sg6eLeuw0vT55PKdBxT7sgiHTJL9ukgih_oU/s1600/marvel-darth-vader-comic-issue-1-cover-star-wars.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
Darth Vader — the icon of all icons — now has his own Marvel comic book series. The company may as well be printing cash. Despite <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2015/02/marvel-star-wars-2-review.html" target="_blank">having several problems with their main <i>Star Wars</i> series</a>, I'm all in.
<p>
<a href="http://shrsl.com/?~7u2y" target="_blank"><i>Star Wars: Darth Vader</i> #1</a>, let's see what you've got!
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiReWI2YJHFLxNzVgR3BwyEFnl60wb0EzwZVJ2pEYSpz4shYjk-yOXSnvWH6WMyAvePgdw34i_WLvHrA1dS-M4F0JPEuld8QcVHGaEO8QNBH3ikUjQ2Yx_U5CHYwm62BGC4oNR3o11c7yg/s1600/marvel-darth-vader-comic-issue-1-opening-crawl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiReWI2YJHFLxNzVgR3BwyEFnl60wb0EzwZVJ2pEYSpz4shYjk-yOXSnvWH6WMyAvePgdw34i_WLvHrA1dS-M4F0JPEuld8QcVHGaEO8QNBH3ikUjQ2Yx_U5CHYwm62BGC4oNR3o11c7yg/s1600/marvel-darth-vader-comic-issue-1-opening-crawl.jpg" /></a></div>
<p>
The intro of <a href="http://shrsl.com/?~7tpm" target="_blank"><i>Star Wars</i> #2</a> made me worry that the opening crawl would quickly lose its allure if we see one every month. Vader's book has one as well, so I guess I may as well get used to it. Not everyone jumps on from the start, so I'm totally okay with these if it means each issue's new readers have an easy way to catch up. I also dig that the text is written from the Empire's perspective here.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD4PTUVeQduqzrmAsfJyi3lkVjX_VbJyq1U1D6XBH8735Nv2l1woElItnhoVbij-enQxmdScR7M9ldIeWwwO1ai3BADuoLTt5PeB9iSOer8WMXoPjsqBr00jkjOi-0zVEWw0YAPuMuA8Q/s1600/marvel-darth-vader-comic-issue-1-jabbas-palace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD4PTUVeQduqzrmAsfJyi3lkVjX_VbJyq1U1D6XBH8735Nv2l1woElItnhoVbij-enQxmdScR7M9ldIeWwwO1ai3BADuoLTt5PeB9iSOer8WMXoPjsqBr00jkjOi-0zVEWw0YAPuMuA8Q/s1600/marvel-darth-vader-comic-issue-1-jabbas-palace.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>This panel is quite the who's-who. Look at how adorable Max Rebo is</i>. <3</center>
<p>
We open with Vader paying a visit to Jabba the Hutt. The two basically try to out-intimidate one another in the midst of their deal. Even knowing the obvious outcome if the meeting were to go south, it's easy to get wrapped up in the tension. Salvador Larocca further enhances the mood with some excellent lighting. It seems he studied the opening scenes from <i>Return of the Jedi</i> quite closely.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHP4A-8x8r_foQBZek40HjPOkrN6hjxHBHN2K-uwPUTbBQqhJiSahX5iLkfIECRwGjsmtDpeL5f5le0zEIpJ986E8O76yzMtCLnyAm903GBtsETWGSLuCNiVw3Vxi5rcqZCZOlJLpviLk/s1600/marvel-darth-vader-comic-issue-1-jabbas-palace-battle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHP4A-8x8r_foQBZek40HjPOkrN6hjxHBHN2K-uwPUTbBQqhJiSahX5iLkfIECRwGjsmtDpeL5f5le0zEIpJ986E8O76yzMtCLnyAm903GBtsETWGSLuCNiVw3Vxi5rcqZCZOlJLpviLk/s1600/marvel-darth-vader-comic-issue-1-jabbas-palace-battle.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Insert your own onomatopoeias</i>!</center>
<p>
The situation quickly escalates into a battle with Jabba's minions. It goes without saying; Vader runs through them with ease. The action looks a bit stiff, but I assume it's to illustrate either the cumbersome nature of the suit or how little effort the altercation requires. Whatever the intention, the characters still look fantastic.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0et4OzJUiStwXP5YmG5wWJad-wWKax0Z9NaROwisYpafvHYwOnjuzPPb5R-ChZtjxNhbQ6KXl2C39_ZB9zAMZuRw3-FRYiz5Sm2YwlTYkLbIRH97DUVhqQOiMx3rpwywlu1D-sdqjkEM/s1600/marvel-darth-vader-comic-issue-1-coruscant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0et4OzJUiStwXP5YmG5wWJad-wWKax0Z9NaROwisYpafvHYwOnjuzPPb5R-ChZtjxNhbQ6KXl2C39_ZB9zAMZuRw3-FRYiz5Sm2YwlTYkLbIRH97DUVhqQOiMx3rpwywlu1D-sdqjkEM/s1600/marvel-darth-vader-comic-issue-1-coruscant.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>How fancy</i>.</center>
<p>
The story shifts to a day prior, with Vader explaining his recent skirmish with the Rebels to Emperor Palpatine. It looks like we can expect the plots of each current <i>Star Wars</i> comic to work alongside each other. The titles can stand on their own, but if you're going the completionist route you'll be filling in pieces of a larger story. It's hardly groundbreaking, but still cool.
<p>
This portion of the issue takes place in the Imperial Palace on Corsucant. It's almost jarring seeing "Original Trilogy" versions of these characters in settings with a Prequel aesthetic. The brightly lit cityscape offers a welcome contrast to the murky scenery of Jabba's Palace however. It also works against what you'd expect from such a heavy scene. Larocca's artwork is excellent, creating an engrossing tone throughout.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2_nK-2IaOokFrHCDJHd9k2i3zcpIpGfN2kxNH8XjBSTXk-whu0C2JNocmLKKgDoY7oEWGQK45UmwLxFFiOGwmEouiCYUtpxL3UYClrXVvPlyt5eMEWWbo-7RU5Ngu3hgdaJ5CsI15b4/s1600/marvel-darth-vader-comic-issue-1-emperor-meeting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2_nK-2IaOokFrHCDJHd9k2i3zcpIpGfN2kxNH8XjBSTXk-whu0C2JNocmLKKgDoY7oEWGQK45UmwLxFFiOGwmEouiCYUtpxL3UYClrXVvPlyt5eMEWWbo-7RU5Ngu3hgdaJ5CsI15b4/s1600/marvel-darth-vader-comic-issue-1-emperor-meeting.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Good talk</i>.</center>
<p>
I'm not quite as taken with the writing however. The scenarios are wonderful, but the stiff dialogue just isn't jiving with me. I don't care how "movie accurate" it seems, I'd much prefer the characters having naturalistic conversations. A few simple contractions would do wonders. <i>Shrug</i>.
<p>
The book wraps up with a little trip through Sith Lord Memory Lane, an unintentionally amusing display of curiosity from our star, and a sure-to-please cameo after shifting back to Tatooine. Overall, <a href="http://shrsl.com/?~7u2y" target="_blank"><i>Star Wars: Darth Vader</i> #1</a> has a lot more highs than lows. While it didn't leave me on the edge of my seat, I see enough promise to at least check out the next issue.
<p>
<i>Follow Castle Geek-Skull on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a> for future updates.</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-82751151596554367642015-02-11T21:23:00.000-05:002015-02-18T06:37:53.422-05:00Weekly Want - Machine Robo, Friesenberg, & More!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDawCr55ql1CDh2zEQmQMkP9yr9FTIgpFMgMoEctK2i2ktwVzJ4ZbQlVVG-h7x7AhGTGOGLGohzrMO0Wc16M7SE9gIdGZmmK7quVJMsPSf5oB86SL2wpFB6ULg_NgPluA3GYvxj7l3sHo/s1600/machine-robo-action-toys-gokin-bike-robo-cy-kill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDawCr55ql1CDh2zEQmQMkP9yr9FTIgpFMgMoEctK2i2ktwVzJ4ZbQlVVG-h7x7AhGTGOGLGohzrMO0Wc16M7SE9gIdGZmmK7quVJMsPSf5oB86SL2wpFB6ULg_NgPluA3GYvxj7l3sHo/s1600/machine-robo-action-toys-gokin-bike-robo-cy-kill.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Oh Bike-Robo, you're so dreamy</i>.</center>
<p>
From the glorious return of old favorites to fancy-pants Japanese statues, the <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/search/label/weekly%20want" target="_blank">Weekly Want</a> covers a lot of ground this time. The temptations never cease. Someone hide my wallet immediately!
<p>
Enough goofy intro-text. Let's just get to the good stuff.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDMHBqpaGvBYMJ2JixDjHxVrdZ3cHlGWGm9W9f_62KMqRgl1DAu3UUhpQdeDDQd_n_aKCfsB77xFF6AlLqK8F9ednRB79Ri80caPRrQGyylL-klrBiRQzr9_6TndkWju8QxMTDfP5ftbw/s1600/age-of-ultron-hulkbuster-iron-man-vs-hulk-kotobukiya-artfx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDMHBqpaGvBYMJ2JixDjHxVrdZ3cHlGWGm9W9f_62KMqRgl1DAu3UUhpQdeDDQd_n_aKCfsB77xFF6AlLqK8F9ednRB79Ri80caPRrQGyylL-klrBiRQzr9_6TndkWju8QxMTDfP5ftbw/s1600/age-of-ultron-hulkbuster-iron-man-vs-hulk-kotobukiya-artfx.jpg" /></a></div>
<center>Kotobukiya <i>Avengers</i> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TAO521Y/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00TAO521Y&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=GSARM764ALZTDQYM" target="_blank">Hulk</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TAO0FXY/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00TAO0FXY&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=Z7USF6P6TT5QZ2ZP" target="_blank">Hulkbuster Iron Man</a> ARTFX+ Statues ($79.99 & $199.99, October 2015)</center>
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HBux-wMqOainrFTjIxrBaBegT6Z7npo86FoWPecMMnBa4iGDSVyADSgNgQAD3_ocrs4r4HJy2_R5o-4i0TB684yfSmcmieYfNV14LhybduuQNFWH9owBdVsOy3zx9_wrp2GJPmEh03U/s1600/breaking-bad-friesenberg-mr-potato-head.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HBux-wMqOainrFTjIxrBaBegT6Z7npo86FoWPecMMnBa4iGDSVyADSgNgQAD3_ocrs4r4HJy2_R5o-4i0TB684yfSmcmieYfNV14LhybduuQNFWH9owBdVsOy3zx9_wrp2GJPmEh03U/s1600/breaking-bad-friesenberg-mr-potato-head.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=PPW02834&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank"><i>Breaking Bad</i> Fries-enberg Mr. Potato Head</a> ($24.99, April 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrKr0IWmagYrsdeLctTGuN4h1IZouZ9QEw320ctmLGmehNSWlFhvvXlHWmuNMFB8NzXkmP5zhveFZ-RO2MvlWDBoCuyOsZilRpKsSviUAQJAnQEFaK7lfgp9ouXF69UVR479PaL4hLepA/s1600/arcee-legends-takara-tomy-g1-classics-generations.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrKr0IWmagYrsdeLctTGuN4h1IZouZ9QEw320ctmLGmehNSWlFhvvXlHWmuNMFB8NzXkmP5zhveFZ-RO2MvlWDBoCuyOsZilRpKsSviUAQJAnQEFaK7lfgp9ouXF69UVR479PaL4hLepA/s1600/arcee-legends-takara-tomy-g1-classics-generations.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.play-asia.com/transformer-legends-lg10-arcee-paOS-13-49-en-70-88dp.html?affiliate_id=1567665" target="_blank">Takara Tomy Transformers Legends LG-10 Arcee</a> ($29.99, February 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDU5A_X1WBauUn3NB57o-dgtptArjFkucZM6ELuXmQvyf4otcYK5o7fLZeQKsDqfjFEYEi9vdjSpVQ5V9XKA8QDAEbbsTZZ4kd4QE6C0vvFtqr9UWy6aVOrOBHqo6xNvaAOuXbS3B6soE/s1600/marvel-select-zombie-sabretooth-action-figure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDU5A_X1WBauUn3NB57o-dgtptArjFkucZM6ELuXmQvyf4otcYK5o7fLZeQKsDqfjFEYEi9vdjSpVQ5V9XKA8QDAEbbsTZZ4kd4QE6C0vvFtqr9UWy6aVOrOBHqo6xNvaAOuXbS3B6soE/s1600/marvel-select-zombie-sabretooth-action-figure.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&fst=as%3Aoff&keywords=marvel%20select&linkCode=ur2&qid=1424257187&rh=n%3A2514571011%2Ck%3Amarvel%20select&rnid=2941120011&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=X46NBW7UFGOO5V2X" target="_blank">Marvel Select</a> Zombie Sabretooth ($24.99, Summer 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3eOywdzYPFtSYo3MYqWghJCoU4LHEJjIX_NLRfcS3iHQ249ugqGrRgbomT4w5dkL0rySxmwdqAfrR5CWQMDiZq73vcoUmIGZRMIchdeI5h5XiSMW6StyLtbqM8NSs883jIk1Z2jspVhk/s1600/mecha-workshop-armarauders-Bellerophon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3eOywdzYPFtSYo3MYqWghJCoU4LHEJjIX_NLRfcS3iHQ249ugqGrRgbomT4w5dkL0rySxmwdqAfrR5CWQMDiZq73vcoUmIGZRMIchdeI5h5XiSMW6StyLtbqM8NSs883jIk1Z2jspVhk/s1600/mecha-workshop-armarauders-Bellerophon.jpg" /></a></div>
<center>Mecha Workshop <i>Armarauders</i> Bellerophon (Price & Release Date TBD)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlwsAnrW_8hs6cXCErYyxKazxUqnw3DGsP_M6OB0U0G47qmBAoBGVENv0l0XooagPEdisYI-Pwl0xRCGwLXRR_lFgMamytVC8seozLbsGcSd7l-jVmWB6g7LhjNYqqAKSrG8O9Dr4TjA/s1600/neca-sega-master-system-rocky-balboa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlwsAnrW_8hs6cXCErYyxKazxUqnw3DGsP_M6OB0U0G47qmBAoBGVENv0l0XooagPEdisYI-Pwl0xRCGwLXRR_lFgMamytVC8seozLbsGcSd7l-jVmWB6g7LhjNYqqAKSrG8O9Dr4TjA/s1600/neca-sega-master-system-rocky-balboa.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><a href="http://www.entertainmentearth.com/prodinfo.asp?number=NC53067&id=CA-108078943" target="_blank">NECA Sega Master System Rocky Balboa</a> ($19.99, February 2015)</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRCbDbS4gbn2SGat2PPsveTdpkupXPUBMiIxtxkGHTIJBzJ-3N_c4USOLoJH7TTV1RvStkbpQ4PuwKIJ_OVP2WH4AyINLQOHsFt1AzrMFfxdyF4kh4BXi9qEzJO6CfOfmZL7IS7eN49s/s1600/machine-robo-action-toys-gokin-masterpiece-gobots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRCbDbS4gbn2SGat2PPsveTdpkupXPUBMiIxtxkGHTIJBzJ-3N_c4USOLoJH7TTV1RvStkbpQ4PuwKIJ_OVP2WH4AyINLQOHsFt1AzrMFfxdyF4kh4BXi9qEzJO6CfOfmZL7IS7eN49s/s1600/machine-robo-action-toys-gokin-masterpiece-gobots.jpg" /></a></div>
<center>Action Toys <a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&fst=as%3Aoff&keywords=machine%20robo&linkCode=ur2&qid=1424258185&rh=n%3A2514571011%2Ck%3Amachine%20robo&rnid=2941120011&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=CICIQUQXCKZG574B" target="_blank"><i>Machine Robo</i></a> Figures (Approx. $50 each, Date TBD)</center>
<p>
I love looking at this stuff so much, but I truly fear for my bank account. Fries-enberg might be my favorite Mr. Potatohead crossover yet, and good gravy do those Machine Robo figures ever look amazing. The highlight of the week might be Rocky's sweet painted-on abs however. I might go grab a Sharpie and give myself the same treatment!
<p>
<i>Catch future Castle Geek-Skull updates on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-24667333223617437052015-02-10T21:00:00.000-05:002015-02-17T20:42:45.388-05:00Marvel Star Wars #2 Review <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjiPrmtf4ondhaMgZ2HUOZ5-RzUCZXV_FcZn7GBZrUDimufUd1RZ22qSI9OSEAU0kvvP94cySeUUhWxfKCwCzQHJnjPaphHFYCl18eICRL40tsWBEkf_b6YjW2-ynrCL-ttDOKxfLbSsQ/s1600/marvel-star-wars-vol-2-issue-2-cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjiPrmtf4ondhaMgZ2HUOZ5-RzUCZXV_FcZn7GBZrUDimufUd1RZ22qSI9OSEAU0kvvP94cySeUUhWxfKCwCzQHJnjPaphHFYCl18eICRL40tsWBEkf_b6YjW2-ynrCL-ttDOKxfLbSsQ/s1600/marvel-star-wars-vol-2-issue-2-cover.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Those crazy Star Wars</i>.</center>
<p>
Despite its occasionally clunky dialogue and inconsistent artwork, <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2015/01/star-wars-issue-1-review.html" target="_blank">I felt <i>Star Wars</i>' return to Marvel Comics was a solid effort</a>. At its best, the characters and overall tone were nearly perfect. If that level of quality can be maintained, the series would easily warrant a monthly purchase.
<p>
Now that the second issue is out in the wild, we may as well dive in to see how it stacks up. Let's grab a nice cool glass of blue milk and check out Marvel's <a href="http://shrsl.com/?~7tpm" target="_blank"><i>Star Wars</i> #2</a>!
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Rf8G6PMIkU1ZEkKo6-hChupXTxQjU9_ybrUvGA0RggqcYbaqpp6RWrvMu6x28_AoDK9bka5PbGf4Fef6susbXCymlDMUEJfn3J_ygqaqoq7V2r7HmB4yUDQ4jWBQfUR3q1EvrfJkods/s1600/marvel-star-wars-issue-2-opening-crawl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Rf8G6PMIkU1ZEkKo6-hChupXTxQjU9_ybrUvGA0RggqcYbaqpp6RWrvMu6x28_AoDK9bka5PbGf4Fef6susbXCymlDMUEJfn3J_ygqaqoq7V2r7HmB4yUDQ4jWBQfUR3q1EvrfJkods/s1600/marvel-star-wars-issue-2-opening-crawl.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Rebel Alliance this, Empire that, yadda yadda yadda</i>.</center>
<p>
I loved that <a href="http://shrsl.com/?~7tpn" target="_blank">the first issue</a> began with a movie-style opening crawl, but I fear having one <i>every single time</i> might diminish the appeal. As you can see, the initial run makes up the <i>Book I: Skywalker Strikes</i> story arc. Though a great device for making sure the reader is up to date, a single intro at the beginning of each "Book" would probably suffice.
<p>
I know I'm being super nitpicky, so let's just move on.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1OveBZiywYE771Tvc3mgI3sVvD6BKCggMsmmU0kVD5YYX9zV4TqeYslteNw1Zd9tpw1amJZ-tM1nXkO1Kf8S9bdwpXnYC8d2KL-PUN3eO0nKvqZ8cVblWgz8IIV54QszW7XgyYr22rYg/s1600/marvel-star-wars-issue-2-darth-vader-vs-luke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1OveBZiywYE771Tvc3mgI3sVvD6BKCggMsmmU0kVD5YYX9zV4TqeYslteNw1Zd9tpw1amJZ-tM1nXkO1Kf8S9bdwpXnYC8d2KL-PUN3eO0nKvqZ8cVblWgz8IIV54QszW7XgyYr22rYg/s1600/marvel-star-wars-issue-2-darth-vader-vs-luke.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Ice cold</i>.</center>
<p>
We pick up right where we left off, with the woefully unprepared Luke Skywalker facing off against <a href="http://www.play-asia.com/star-wars-variant-play-arts-kai-darth-vader-paOS-13-49-en-70-8gxz.html?affiliate_id=1567665" target="_blank">Darth Vader</a>. Our protagonist goes full Inigo Montoya mode. If this scene were in a movie between <i>Episode IV</i> and <i>V</i>, it would make their classic <i>Empire Strikes Back</i> showdown fairly redundant. An earlier meeting between the two sounds great in theory, but I'm not sure that it really benefits the overall story.
<p>
Even so, I actually laughed out loud at Vader's retort. I doubt that was the intention, but there's something oddly hilarious about the legendary Sith Lord being such a bastard. Fortunately, there's plenty more where that came from. Over the course of the issue, he creates a complete epidemic of what are essentially gigantic fuck-yous. The only downside is that many of these moments flounder in the midst of cumbersome dialogue. "<i>Very</i> many fathers" doesn't exactly roll off the tongue.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfAbQBej8iKYtzJNUZ5igiG7_gi5ETjHmMuN8_xezKFr_dgHlMwkBlmpcncVuOlGZx1UEujBkMu-aW8UBvvcPoPZv6kcfHTnlKtbtMlaV_u22r12qlRZHnqjuQ1YInyLJfcFLqMpp0_qI/s1600/marvel-star-wars-issue-2-darth-vader-stormtroopers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfAbQBej8iKYtzJNUZ5igiG7_gi5ETjHmMuN8_xezKFr_dgHlMwkBlmpcncVuOlGZx1UEujBkMu-aW8UBvvcPoPZv6kcfHTnlKtbtMlaV_u22r12qlRZHnqjuQ1YInyLJfcFLqMpp0_qI/s1600/marvel-star-wars-issue-2-darth-vader-stormtroopers.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Stormtroopers actually hitting their targets? Madness!</i></center>
<p>
The dramatic irony-ridden father/son skirmish is quickly interrupted by Han and Leia piloting an <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00J4S9BEA/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00J4S9BEA&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=CFDHFE53TM6FP74P" target="_blank">AT-AT Imperial Walker</a>. While the day is saved for Luke, they pretty much guarantee a swift death for the newly freed slave workers. This is one of the issue's biggest problems. If you're not sure what AT-AT stands for, it's "All Terrain Armored Transport." That last part is critical.
<p>
<i>*Glasses push*</i>
<p>
While their frighteningly powerful laser cannons are of great use on the battlefield, one of the primary functions of AT-AT walkers is to carry personnel. <a href="http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/All_Terrain_Armored_Transport" target="_blank">Their central compartments are sizable enough to hold <i>forty</i> troops and several small vehicles</a>. There should be more than enough room for the workers, but the issue shows the majority of them following behind on foot.
<p>
The logic here is bad enough, but it also makes for a nasty continuity error. Han is shown commanding the slave workers to <i>board</i> the AT-AT in the previous issue. It's pretty clear the decision to mysteriously have them still running around willy-nilly was made just so they could be dispatched by Vader and his Stormtroopers. The writing could have used a lot more thought.
<p>
I also have a wealth of <i>other</i> problems with Jason Aaron's work on this issue, but I'd rather the review not devolve into a huge list of pedantic complaints. The book is far from perfect. Let's just leave it at that.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFNofZ1ARaQCse_BzOjUzJFpeugIED1HLWL3bjSQbmzHwgoHHyn-r1G_N8_hMwpm9W3H911h84WoXl0goGazNWZZQwXskF5IhQieEtlB6l_sBBf1yXtxatzs8hr9Jv9yKmUC8UXA8M7Vk/s1600/marvel-star-wars-issue-2-luke-speeder-bike-vs-stormtroopers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFNofZ1ARaQCse_BzOjUzJFpeugIED1HLWL3bjSQbmzHwgoHHyn-r1G_N8_hMwpm9W3H911h84WoXl0goGazNWZZQwXskF5IhQieEtlB6l_sBBf1yXtxatzs8hr9Jv9yKmUC8UXA8M7Vk/s1600/marvel-star-wars-issue-2-luke-speeder-bike-vs-stormtroopers.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>But hey, action!</i></center>
<p>
At the very least, the unnecessary slaughter opens the book to a big ol' roller coaster of an escape scene. Luke commandeers a speeder bike, Vader takes on Han and Leia's AT-AT, and C-3PO struggles to get the Millennium Falcon prepped for take-off. (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E4FNTIC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00E4FNTIC&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=L4I6QTCY5KU7OKLG" target="_blank">Chewbacca</a> is unfortunately absent.) There are some really fantastic scenes in there. I <i>almost</i> felt myself getting invested.
<p>
I feel incredibly conflicted overall. While a lot of this issue rubbed me the wrong way, there were still a handful of legitimately wonderful moments. I can easily see how this series <i>could</i> be amazing with a little more care given to the dialogue and story developments. John Cassaday's erratic handle on the character likenesses have turned out to be the least of its worries.
<p>
I may give the next issue a shot, but hesitantly so. <a href="http://shrsl.com/?~7tpm" target="_blank"><i>Star Wars</i> #2</a> was unfortunately a big step down from the debut. But hey, I'm sure some of you out there might find it absolutely perfect. I'd be tempted to say it's a "love it or hate it" affair if not for having fallen so harshly in the middle.
<p>
<i>For more Castle Geek-Skull madness, follow along on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-90286264417694252882015-02-09T13:17:00.000-05:002015-02-17T15:15:20.577-05:00The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl #2 Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2aGD-9lBAY-jgMpm6TfumbPVoiT7Xgi7uHpT7jk1zaFyCL8hEbzD-9Aq9mzK8Jerb1mPmx1uAD-s4gAxBBvlVNet9uShhW3mNSw_HGTeSlIv1X1vL0WMdwI1rFgL4sX9-Tdg9U1GAUIk/s1600/unbeatable-squirrel-girl-issue-2-cover-marvel-comics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2aGD-9lBAY-jgMpm6TfumbPVoiT7Xgi7uHpT7jk1zaFyCL8hEbzD-9Aq9mzK8Jerb1mPmx1uAD-s4gAxBBvlVNet9uShhW3mNSw_HGTeSlIv1X1vL0WMdwI1rFgL4sX9-Tdg9U1GAUIk/s1600/unbeatable-squirrel-girl-issue-2-cover-marvel-comics.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>For the record, she's riding atop Iron Man armor on the full cover. It's awesome.</i></center>
<p>
<a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2015/01/unbeatable-squirrel-girl-1-review.html" target="_blank"><i>The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl</i> #1</a> was one of the first comics I read this year, and I was immediately won over by its upbeat humor and lively visuals. It made far too great an impression to simply stop reading there. The second issue has finally made its way to shelves, and I'm seriously looking forward to whatever it has in store.
<p>
Alright, let's do this. Here's a look at Marvel's <a href="http://shrsl.com/?~7tjr" target=_"blank"><i>The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl</i> #2</a>!
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp0zdQvrIx4pfTm3smwCUedelo97Zs23RpXHTJLNnFVorZpx8M6ihllBjYlkiLLfXA9NZRzvX2Bew321MV3rUoKVrYhaQEu6sg4XOr6EbK3kUYU2DNTnSGsjHvWVAjX-6njcqmX2GKjFA/s1600/unbeatable-squirrel-girl-issue-2-galactus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp0zdQvrIx4pfTm3smwCUedelo97Zs23RpXHTJLNnFVorZpx8M6ihllBjYlkiLLfXA9NZRzvX2Bew321MV3rUoKVrYhaQEu6sg4XOr6EbK3kUYU2DNTnSGsjHvWVAjX-6njcqmX2GKjFA/s1600/unbeatable-squirrel-girl-issue-2-galactus.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Delicious Kirby dots</i>.</center>
<p>
<a href="http://shrsl.com/?~7tk4" target="_blank">Issue #1</a> closed with a particularly gigantic character tease that I actually took as a joke. How foolish! On <i>page one</i> of our follow-up, the looming threat of Galactus and the Star Sphere draws near! The great Devourer of Worlds has made a potentially damning oversight however, and it's now up to Squirrel Girl to stop him!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtbVhVDU-0VXgHodsP3v5EdosC2MfRk12o7-HpDuS3YnPaXwo0rkzaCkGPwcqOPZe0YMqulLy_KSP03Q2D4aXBVEZkJ_M-nJiZOu_DYiBqDvOFvvWVTLHU-zBQ6BzbOFI8MKH_CwBvUHI/s1600/unbeatable-squirrel-girl-issue-2-galactus-counter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtbVhVDU-0VXgHodsP3v5EdosC2MfRk12o7-HpDuS3YnPaXwo0rkzaCkGPwcqOPZe0YMqulLy_KSP03Q2D4aXBVEZkJ_M-nJiZOu_DYiBqDvOFvvWVTLHU-zBQ6BzbOFI8MKH_CwBvUHI/s1600/unbeatable-squirrel-girl-issue-2-galactus-counter.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>The main event to end all main events</i>.</center>
<p>
This horrible news interrupts Doreen's attempts to find an extracurricular club at school orientation. "Short Bludgeoning Staff Club, AKA Club Club" might seem promising, but super-hero business trumps all. It seems the poor girl is destined to be pulled away from her would-be "normal" life. Part of me wonders where they can possibly go from here, but I'm happy to be along for the ride.
<p>
Never one to back down from impossible odds, Squirrel Girl gets right to work. She decides "borrowing" a particularly famous set of armor is the perfect way to facilitate her Galactus battle. The pages that follow are an absolute blast. Highlights include taxi-destroying travel action, a nod to our star's original costume, and a fairly exciting infiltration scene.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVHciRgW9QrJvBRcjmeqooI3w-ZrlmXqtijf6A500dpwIvkWfo2jjHF31bJA1O2KRdRclXaCerIL_Hosz26Vdca5tZe8-q5Vtj8XCca1sDuHhzLyugwgDd8ANbHFKO_wlOWzcBbgeS18/s1600/unbeatable-squirrel-girl-issue-2-stark-tower-lasers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVHciRgW9QrJvBRcjmeqooI3w-ZrlmXqtijf6A500dpwIvkWfo2jjHF31bJA1O2KRdRclXaCerIL_Hosz26Vdca5tZe8-q5Vtj8XCca1sDuHhzLyugwgDd8ANbHFKO_wlOWzcBbgeS18/s1600/unbeatable-squirrel-girl-issue-2-stark-tower-lasers.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>"Squirrel agility abilities, what what!!"</i></center>
<p>
The plan goes off without a hitch, allowing Doreen and Tippy-Toe to finally suit up. The latter's armor build literally made me laugh out loud. There's no time for giggles however, because Galactus is now a mere hour away!
<p>
Unfortunately, saving the day is always easier said than done. Our heroes encounter <i>another</i> villainous obstacle on their way to the Ultimate Hungry-Man. <i>Dun-dun-dun</i>! You'll have to stick around for the next issue to find out the rest!
<p>
I'm happy to report that I loved <a href="http://shrsl.com/?~7tjr" target=_"blank"><i>The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl</i> #2</a> just as much as the first. There are ample laughs to go around, and the pacing and artwork remain superb. I hope the core creative team of Ryan North, Erica Henderson, and Rico Renzi stay firmly in place, because their collaboration on this series has been absolute gold. I'm ready and waiting for more!
<p>
<i>Watch for future Castle Geek-Skull posts by following on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-56179259822679231322015-02-08T13:16:00.000-05:002015-02-17T16:15:34.196-05:00Transformers 3rd Party G1 Hound Showdown!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTt3CPogTWPGtuP81H5w98iu6qb66ID5VPRu6PCiiaT0L6OjeFlsLYXRt9m6UseKmFggU10oRTi39BsESJGMX6uheVgfcCTKkap0KwBxwYh-T8rNWdWe_6UpoYoOQ2fCvItAj1aIrfDXs/s1600/transformers-g1-hound-toy-character-model.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTt3CPogTWPGtuP81H5w98iu6qb66ID5VPRu6PCiiaT0L6OjeFlsLYXRt9m6UseKmFggU10oRTi39BsESJGMX6uheVgfcCTKkap0KwBxwYh-T8rNWdWe_6UpoYoOQ2fCvItAj1aIrfDXs/s1600/transformers-g1-hound-toy-character-model.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><i>Decisions, decisions.</i></center>
<p>
In the wild world of 3rd Party Transformer toys, it's not uncommon for several companies to release their own versions of the same characters. However, the practice has been most common with "sexier," high-concept ideas like <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2014/07/transformers-generations-superion-menasor.html" target="_blank">combiners</a>. That's now completely out the window. Within the same day, new images surfaced of two different nods to the oft-overlooked and under-appreciated Hound.
<p>
Begun, the Hound War has.
<p><a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuD7EBqv0xs6WPBFk9OqjVHkzW9RsMV0t-7K7Sy4Kem-jhD2e08gehO1ZuYwkR3yAYZBmotsMilW-mY05qNJrVIB_1w776YqBgb6ubYMHGmD5g_OdQ38yMUAAKf2Wc2jt6KCHEsx31oww/s1600/maketoys-remaster-gun-dog-transformers-g1-hound-toy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuD7EBqv0xs6WPBFk9OqjVHkzW9RsMV0t-7K7Sy4Kem-jhD2e08gehO1ZuYwkR3yAYZBmotsMilW-mY05qNJrVIB_1w776YqBgb6ubYMHGmD5g_OdQ38yMUAAKf2Wc2jt6KCHEsx31oww/s1600/maketoys-remaster-gun-dog-transformers-g1-hound-toy.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><b>Maketoys Remaster Series Gun Dog Hound</b></center>
<p>
Maketoys' "Gun Dog" is a 6 inch <a href="http://www.play-asia.com/paOScore/19-71-99-15-masterpiece+transformers.html?affiliate_id=1567665" target="_blank">Masterpiece style</a> take on Hound. There's an obvious adherence to the original character model, with just enough alteration for modern engineering. The shoulders can also be shifted downward for a look similar to that of the G1 toy. There's no mistaking who this 'Bot is meant to be.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwaL9fe6BcaBTXE6lJG7EjM8PPP0nMEpS28TccaXbUKdr1UM7rO_UjlVQN4XSGOmeZXYtIbHeo7h5s-fjOCEu1Z0JRkbkfdbcLVHTTSRgf6W-h3th3Xvd8GZoirampc-BeYDrBfcXoGE8/s1600/tfc-toys-detective-transformers-g1-hound-toy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwaL9fe6BcaBTXE6lJG7EjM8PPP0nMEpS28TccaXbUKdr1UM7rO_UjlVQN4XSGOmeZXYtIbHeo7h5s-fjOCEu1Z0JRkbkfdbcLVHTTSRgf6W-h3th3Xvd8GZoirampc-BeYDrBfcXoGE8/s1600/tfc-toys-detective-transformers-g1-hound-toy.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><b>TFC Toys Old Time Series Hound</b></center>
<p>
On the other hand, TFC "Detective" takes a few more liberties with the design. The classic Hound silhouette is in place, but the details are filled out with a more modern aesthetic. Interestingly, the vehicle mode is quite realistic despite the robot's sharp, mecha-like paneling.
<p>
I personally prefer the cartoonier look of the Maketoys version. If I'm going to pay a premium for a collector-targeted "Transformer" toy, I want the one that more accurately captures the character. That said, TFC Toys' take still shows promise. Seeing that sort of robot design come from such a straight-forward, old-school vehicle is honestly pretty captivating.
<p>
While the 3rd party companies are always throwing out incredibly alluring releases, I generally just stick to Hasbro and Takara Tomy's Transformers. They have more limitations to contend with, but you can't go wrong with the significantly lower asking price. When it comes to official Hound toys, I feel the two most recent are both worth tracking down.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDNfL8GFsXSb1BbHrELeDuoKVkWvkbGxvOvPF-Ycz0A3R-9CicbKlb_1hT3ckqAoixuRflpWZ5EOwES1L3aLS0yZIi-RkYr4owi52dPa7jYXUlUydld-ZZwuC6OGbM4J2NbmWZ5G69UeE/s1600/transformers-hound-universe-alternators-g1-toys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDNfL8GFsXSb1BbHrELeDuoKVkWvkbGxvOvPF-Ycz0A3R-9CicbKlb_1hT3ckqAoixuRflpWZ5EOwES1L3aLS0yZIi-RkYr4owi52dPa7jYXUlUydld-ZZwuC6OGbM4J2NbmWZ5G69UeE/s1600/transformers-hound-universe-alternators-g1-toys.jpg" /></a></div>
<center>Left: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001NJ4XKU/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001NJ4XKU&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=AG6LSZLAECQHOM2H" target="_blank"><b>2008 Universe Hound</b></a> Right: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000XO8EG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0000XO8EG&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=M4QFORH2Q3BSC2DC" target="_blank"><b>2004 Alternators Hound</b></a></center>
<p>
Though on the verge of looking outdated, the Alternators version was a strong release at the time. On the other hand, Universe "Classics" Hound remains one of my favorite modern Transformer toys. The picture above doesn't even begin to do him justice.
<p>
Despite being one of the original 1984 Autobots, Hound has rarely been given a chance to shine in the cartoons and comics. It's a real shame, because he's a pretty likable guy! But hey, at least he's had some worthwhile toy releases over the years. Official or not, I'm glad to see that even more are on the way.
<p>
<i>Keep up to date with Castle Geek-Skull on <a href="https://twitter.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Twitter</a> & <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CastleGeekSkull" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266389276901701392.post-39003658712955773362015-02-06T21:50:00.000-05:002015-02-14T00:30:36.547-05:00Comic Book Michelangelo Toy Review (Ninja Turtles 2012)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyD0xWyTK_AXkmGEoAt6D2mU7x11nlzh4_layycR0oSvY_ZQpT3dlVV78Mw12iVgCSnM_-VtUQmKvNEz1-6c-1HMMYHXcfz9yyIZ-VzlLuK40YdCaI5xcW4dxxZv-fgkhT7YOOWomejjI/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo-Closeup.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyD0xWyTK_AXkmGEoAt6D2mU7x11nlzh4_layycR0oSvY_ZQpT3dlVV78Mw12iVgCSnM_-VtUQmKvNEz1-6c-1HMMYHXcfz9yyIZ-VzlLuK40YdCaI5xcW4dxxZv-fgkhT7YOOWomejjI/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo-Closeup.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Master of Dual-Nunchucks!</i></center>
<p>
If I buy one Ninja Turtle action figure, I pretty much <i>have to</i> grab the remaining three. I'd bet a hefty sum of cash that I'm far from alone. After raving about Playmates' semi-recent <a href="http://www.castlegeekskull.com/2015/01/comic-book-raphael-teenage-mutant-ninja.html" target="_blank">Original Comic Book Raphael</a>, the inevitable quest for his brothers began. First up is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MY3MYSC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00MY3MYSC&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=4RZQ7FBN25OY7PDW" target="_blank">Michelangelo</a>. Review mode, activate!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK3Nv7X0YWU_klRJh11OxCue2kQNsn1tTQV7mesxPQFVDkH_wNzQ2v3v32JDwCOav5eLxUS2NzdGQ9nw8UoDfSIxLgpdj9VCadA0NbcTWVe5Y4xVFFk22ymwFuL_66Fxx8XriU9OklQLw/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK3Nv7X0YWU_klRJh11OxCue2kQNsn1tTQV7mesxPQFVDkH_wNzQ2v3v32JDwCOav5eLxUS2NzdGQ9nw8UoDfSIxLgpdj9VCadA0NbcTWVe5Y4xVFFk22ymwFuL_66Fxx8XriU9OklQLw/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo.JPG" /></a></div>
<center></center>
<p><a name='more'></a>
The Playmates Comic Turtles all share the same base body. While unique sculpts would be nice, it's actually unnecessary since the characters were originally indistinguishable aside from their weaponry. Mike does have his own headsculpt however, and it perfectly captures the trademark grimace.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgak4VogKNTvb0J_UxAUPb6URr6jQ5aho-6OA2y-kO7HbfaM28_g-WYgxzlfmRxfxx25JQmVbIbvdUffeqKnZF1M0DdUgtkfVwjXZQD3RgjKT3gxxnIMcUmjs005HZVVYGyirPwEKGnJ20/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo-Back.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgak4VogKNTvb0J_UxAUPb6URr6jQ5aho-6OA2y-kO7HbfaM28_g-WYgxzlfmRxfxx25JQmVbIbvdUffeqKnZF1M0DdUgtkfVwjXZQD3RgjKT3gxxnIMcUmjs005HZVVYGyirPwEKGnJ20/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo-Back.JPG" /></a></div>
<p>
The picture is a bit on the cruddy side, but the back view shows off some nice detail. From head to toe, the emulated cross-hatching is used to great effect. This does a lot to sell the 1980's comic book vibe.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7AhPMMTMGWq0nHwKmBFUqVUd41cAfvxHpspmKLO4CZ1St5nS22vSC4eomiv7yP56pnZ-y76RlouECdRUa3R5o6e-WH-FnyHFzBBVIxDYGOWQoppJV-19mHOtsqF6ScFpAngU3L015kD0/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo-Pose-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7AhPMMTMGWq0nHwKmBFUqVUd41cAfvxHpspmKLO4CZ1St5nS22vSC4eomiv7yP56pnZ-y76RlouECdRUa3R5o6e-WH-FnyHFzBBVIxDYGOWQoppJV-19mHOtsqF6ScFpAngU3L015kD0/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo-Pose-2.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>These are my boomsticks.</i></center>
<p>
As with Raph, the weaponry here is unfortunately the biggest downside. Michelangelo's unpainted nunchaku are stuck in a small little arch that limit the toy's natural poses. Regardless, they're acceptable for the price-point.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNBLQIiXK_taS4_8i3i5d7vDw_MF5ErKR5n_jpIob2f-gK5KrbRcbm0ve14MlMHXu2l7M_Uh8z_8yozhIgg7XZYzy86jDb4vitmQMbUNf-qwQPEw0xmOTHARxBpqW65Q4MwtH6TlCbOes/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo-Pose-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNBLQIiXK_taS4_8i3i5d7vDw_MF5ErKR5n_jpIob2f-gK5KrbRcbm0ve14MlMHXu2l7M_Uh8z_8yozhIgg7XZYzy86jDb4vitmQMbUNf-qwQPEw0xmOTHARxBpqW65Q4MwtH6TlCbOes/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo-Pose-3.JPG" /></a></div>
<p>
Of course, you can always employ the aid of a figure stand (like the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003F256QI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B003F256QI&link_code=as3&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=3AKHSH45NZIO24CD" target="_blank">Bandai Tamashii Stage</a> pictured above) to enhance your display options. I almost had to hold my breath to get this "flying kick" pose to stay in place, but it made for a rad photo op!
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz6JlkVejDGpKeYB7_X-VLKLsVRJP0o6d_Q4MoMI34LJrUiuz9eOiRis2mXWFaLtK_lW0CtyhbuSxSSEI-H8WAX5qE97zRlCe4C8IIoG3ij5-T9r00co9ora6LSsqQx7MfWWaYsvg19BY/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Mike-Raph.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz6JlkVejDGpKeYB7_X-VLKLsVRJP0o6d_Q4MoMI34LJrUiuz9eOiRis2mXWFaLtK_lW0CtyhbuSxSSEI-H8WAX5qE97zRlCe4C8IIoG3ij5-T9r00co9ora6LSsqQx7MfWWaYsvg19BY/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Mike-Raph.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>Bros.</i></center>
<p>
It should come as no surprise, but Michelangelo looks pretty sweet displayed next to his brother. I couldn't help arranging them in some mock "practice" poses. I might have made a few battle sound effects under my breath in the process.
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTuHiO9t4CbbPZwSBARdBFtJ6kf1nZ51Jd1LeFg04ltreEfSteqLI0OfiePJuskDTIEIXA0SU9MaI0HkyqOdTqnw0Zu-1dOl_tpJjLE8tA3S9Q-F9B0uIDTCaHERak3JO8FNOEyyiNZ9Q/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo-Raph-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTuHiO9t4CbbPZwSBARdBFtJ6kf1nZ51Jd1LeFg04ltreEfSteqLI0OfiePJuskDTIEIXA0SU9MaI0HkyqOdTqnw0Zu-1dOl_tpJjLE8tA3S9Q-F9B0uIDTCaHERak3JO8FNOEyyiNZ9Q/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo-Raph-2.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>I once heard that this kicking and punching business is all in the mind</i>.</center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEh-JM0HknUN2pjvJ6oivXIkmM3yYimJmB9Bol2MPOXbgdHBocvDvoueWTNGAt1UAWv6ssqPUWhRGaVxiXGRvqGXRPX8NSbcWZjaMdxP2zrrfaT6lp4e_uiQILXfuxAHjyawMsaw3piyg/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo-Raph.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEh-JM0HknUN2pjvJ6oivXIkmM3yYimJmB9Bol2MPOXbgdHBocvDvoueWTNGAt1UAWv6ssqPUWhRGaVxiXGRvqGXRPX8NSbcWZjaMdxP2zrrfaT6lp4e_uiQILXfuxAHjyawMsaw3piyg/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo-Raph.JPG" /></a></div>
<center><i>It's time to go shred the Shredder!</i></center>
<p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaWTuWpzbPTwt4FsjIm_JSNqdi0jM2DlVQ0mMA5LHB2SoK9-KpV9LTlGBIHg3bRePRorKPlIGd4AaQZ0Q-u8UM14fdzvhMOOFd3lnezy13E4uGTklAmfHnVWP-S3HGjxAxs12tI4_UFBg/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo-Pose.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaWTuWpzbPTwt4FsjIm_JSNqdi0jM2DlVQ0mMA5LHB2SoK9-KpV9LTlGBIHg3bRePRorKPlIGd4AaQZ0Q-u8UM14fdzvhMOOFd3lnezy13E4uGTklAmfHnVWP-S3HGjxAxs12tI4_UFBg/s1600/TMNT-2012-Comic-Book-Michelangelo-Pose.JPG" /></a></div>
<p>
Ultimately, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MY3MYSC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00MY3MYSC&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=4RZQ7FBN25OY7PDW" target="_blank">Michelangelo</a> isn't quite as solid of a stand-alone figure as <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MY3N3SM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B00MY3N3SM&link_code=as3&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=ZDFBA2ZNPU37QQRW" target="_blank">Raphael</a> given the limitations of the nunchucks, but he's <i>easily</i> worth a purchase. His headsculpt hits the ideal TMNT aesthetic spot-on and he looks fantastic displayed alongside his co-stars. The Official Castle Geek-Skull Plastic-Crack Scoring Guide gives him 4.5 chocolate fudge and sardine pizzas out of 5!
<p>
Leonardo and Donatello, here I come.
<p>
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MY3MYSC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00MY3MYSC&linkCode=as2&tag=casgeesku-20&linkId=4RZQ7FBN25OY7PDW" target="_blank">Playmates' TMNT 2012 Original Comic Book Michelangelo</a> is now available from Amazon.com:</b>
<p>
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<p>
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